Sardines, Mackerel, and Other Oily Fish: The Benefits of Marine Lipids in the Fight Against Cancer

The Anticancer Effects of Marine-Derived Lipids

The world’s oceans represent a vast and largely untapped source of biodiversity, offering a high probability for the discovery of unique chemical compounds with therapeutic properties. Among these, bioactive molecules found in marine organisms have shown notable anticancer effects.

Targeting Cancer Cells and Tumor Environments

Marine-derived lipids are used to selectively target components of cancer cells or the tumor microenvironment. This addresses both the patient’s overall health and the tumor itself, working to prevent or inhibit tumor growth, sensitize tumor cells to anti-cancer treatments, and reduce cancer-related malnutrition.

Marine-Derived Sources of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Marine-derived lipids include omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, found in abundance in oily fish such as sardines, mackerel, and herring. They also include ether lipids, present in marine sources such as shark liver oil and scallops.

The Antitumor Effects of Fatty Acids in Breast Cancer, Prostate Cancer, and Leukemia

A number of marine-derived lipids and lipid classes, with both anti-tumor and pro-tumor properties, have been identified in recent years. These lipids integrate into cell membranes, where they target specific proteins (the ion channels), influencing the behavior of cancer cells.

Future Directions: Omega-3 Supplements Combined with Treatment?

The molecular impact of omega-3 fatty acids in cancer therapy remains underexplored, but early studies on dietary supplements in cancer prevention have shown promising results. For example, a trial conducted by our team at the University of Tours research lab has demonstrated that combining omega-3 DHA supplements with chemotherapy improves survival outcomes for patients with metastatic breast cancer.

Increasing the Potential of Marine Products

Marine products offer a vast spectrum of applications, from serving as models for drug discovery to providing innovative cancer treatments. The anticancer potential of marine-derived compounds has been demonstrated in numerous studies, including our research within the framework of the Marine Molecules, Metabolism and Cancer of the Cancéropôle Grand-Ouest network.

Conclusion

The potential of marine-derived lipids in cancer prevention and treatment is vast and promising. Further research is needed to fully understand their mechanisms of action and to develop effective therapies. As our understanding of these lipids grows, we may uncover new opportunities for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer.

FAQs

• What are the potential benefits of marine-derived lipids in cancer treatment?
  Marine-derived lipids have been shown to target cancer cells and tumor environments, preventing or inhibiting tumor growth, sensitizing tumor cells to anti-cancer treatments, and reducing cancer-related malnutrition.
• How do marine-derived lipids interact with cancer cells?
  Marine-derived lipids integrate into cell membranes, targeting specific proteins (ion channels) that influence cancer cell behavior.
• Are omega-3 fatty acids effective in cancer treatment?
  Early studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may be effective in cancer prevention and treatment, particularly when combined with chemotherapy or other anti-cancer treatments.
• Can marine-derived lipids be used as a complement to traditional cancer treatments?
  Yes, marine-derived lipids may be used as a complement to traditional cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy.