A molecule produced by the body from omega-3 fatty acids has been found to help treat and prevent respiratory stress in mice.

As part of an ongoing study into the anti-inflammatory benefits of a diet rich in certain types of fish, such as salmon, mackerel and anchovies, researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School have discovered that consumption of omega-3 could help protect against asthma and allergies.

Supported by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, the study identified that the metabolic product of an omega-3 fatty acid, Resolvin E1 (RvE1), has a key role in reducing inflammation of the airways in mice.

The researchers suggest that RvE1 helps resolve inflammation of airways "by dampening innate immune signals" that trigger it.

According to the study's authors, as previous research has linked increased intake of omega-3 fatty acids to a lower prevalence of asthma in humans, the findings provide an opportunity to investigate the role of RvE1 as a potential treatment for asthma.

The European Federation of Allergy and Airway Diseases Patients Association is holding its annual conference today until June 28th in Warsaw, Poland.

Attendees will discuss the latest knowledge and future treatments of allergy, asthma and COPD.

Register now to access our FREE educational library

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