The effects of n-3 PUFAs on colorectal cancer carcinogenesis: comprehensive review

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one the major concerns of developed nations. Treatment strategies for CRC vary by stage: surgery dominates early-stage disease, while chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or their combinations are mainstays for advanced or metastatic cases. However, these approaches face challenges such as resistance and off-target effects. Over the past decade, increasing evidence suggests that diet composition has a vital role in the prevention, onset, growth, and progression of colorectal cancer. Variety of epidemiological, clinical, and experimental studies have shown that fish-derived n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) have potent effects in CRC carcinogenesis, including cancer proliferation, development, invasion, and therapy. These effects may be associated with immunomodulatory activities of n-3 PUFAs through influencing inflammation, apoptosis, and activation of immune cells. This review focuses on the anti-neoplastic effects of n-3 PUFAs, especially docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in colorectal cancer and the potential adjuvant use of them in CRC management.