An omega-3 paradox: When 'healthy fats' shut down defenses against cancer
Omega fatty acids have long been recognized for their benefits: supporting cardiovascular health, reducing systemic inflammation, and promoting brain development and cognitive function. But scientists now warn of a long-unrecognized downside to these compounds when it comes to cancer and immunotherapy.
Omega-3 fatty acids, renowned for their cardiovascular and brain benefits, may unexpectedly suppress the immune system's natural killer cells, potentially aiding cancer growth. Yale University researchers discovered that these polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) enter immune cells via a transport protein called LRP5, inhibiting natural killer cell activity and hampering the immune system's ability to fight cancer.
Natural killer cells are crucial in immune surveillance, swiftly destroying virus-infected and early-stage cancer cells. Blocking LRP5 or providing a PUFA-free diet to mice slowed tumor growth and enhanced the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapy. The Yale study aligns with a recent Weill Cornell Medicine finding that linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid, boosts triple-negative breast cancer growth.
Both studies suggest PUFAs exploit various signaling pathways to promote cancer growth, emphasizing the need for personalized nutritional recommendations in cancer therapy.
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