Omega 3 fatty acids may help protect against asthma

London, June 24 : A new study, led by researchers at Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School has found that a molecule from omega 3 fatty acids found in fish supplements may help in preventing asthma.

The molecule Resolvin E1 (RvE1) from omega-3 fatty acid, was produced by the body in response to inflammation.

The researchers found that RvE1 played a vital role in dampening the development of airway inflammation and promoting its resolution in mice, thereby reducing the innate immune signals that caused inflammation.

Various studies have showed that high levels of omega-3 fatty acids reduced asthmatic symptoms in people. These fatty acids are found in cold-water fish such as salmon, mackerel and anchovies

However, the mechanisms related to the same were not clearly understood.

Researchers believe that the new finding may provide scientists an opportunity to focus on the role of RvE1 as a potential therapeutic candidate.

The study appears in Nature Immunology.

ANI