Original title: Unsaturated fatty acids as immunometabolic modulators in high-risk pregnancies: mechanisms, clinical evidence, and translational perspectives
High-risk pregnancies can involve metabolic problems and lasting inflammation that affect the placenta. Omega-3 fats such as DHA and EPA can change cell membranes and signals involved in inflammation. They may also help the body calm inflammation and support cell energy systems. Studies link omega-3 supplements to lower preterm birth risk, especially in people with low DHA to start. Results for preeclampsia and gestational diabetes are less consistent.
Imagine cooking a meal while the stove keeps running too hot. The heat can make several dishes go wrong at once, and turning it down may help, but the right adjustment depends on what is already in the pot. In this paper, metabolic stress is the heat, inflammation is the trouble spreading through the meal, and omega-3 fats may help calm it; a person's starting DHA level may affect how much benefit they get.
High-risk pregnancies can involve metabolic stress and inflammation that affect both the pregnant person and the placenta. The review finds evidence linking omega-3 supplements to lower preterm birth risk, but results for preeclampsia and gestational diabetes are mixed. Knowing a person's starting nutritional status may help guide future care.
The review does not establish that omega-3 supplements prevent every complication of high-risk pregnancy. Evidence for preeclampsia and gestational diabetes is inconsistent, and some trials report no effect. Differences in study design, starting nutritional status, dosage, timing, and adherence limit how confidently results can be applied across groups.
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Unsaturated fatty acids as immunometabolic modulators in high-risk pregnancies: mechanisms, clinical evidence, and translational perspectives — Edmárcio Olinto da Fonseca, Jocilda Carvalho de Faria, Regiane Penaforte Santos et al. — Frontiers in Pharmacology — doi:10.3389/fphar.2026.1864831
Abstract licence: CC BY
Explanation generated by Synthesis from the abstract — it is not the original paper.