Omega-3 Fatty Acid Could Increase One of Myokines in Male Patients with Coronary Artery Disease: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Background Omega-3 fatty acids have a protective role against cardiovascular disease and these protective properties are attributed to its anti-inflammatory effects. Myokines have anti-inflammatory properties and thereby reduce low-grade inflammation. Irisin, as a myokine, is considered to be therapeutic for human metabolic diseases. This study was conducted to determine the effects of Omega-3 fatty acids supplementation on serum irisin in men with coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods This study was an 8-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Forty-eight CAD male patients (Omega-3, n = 24; control, n = 24) were randomly assigned to either Omega-3 or control groups by permuted block randomization method. Only the participants with more than 50% stenosis in at least one major coronary vessel were included. A total of 3 participants in the control group were excluded from the study. Forty-five participants (Omega-3, n = 24; control, n = 21) completed the study. Participants took Omega-3 fatty acids supplement (720 mg eicosapentaenoic acid plus 480 mg docosahexaenoic acid) or placebo (edible paraffin) for 8 weeks. Serum irisin, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), lipid profile and anthropometric indices, body composition, and food intake were assessed before and after intervention. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS software. Paired t-test was used for evaluating within-group effects from baseline. Variables with normal distribution were compared by independent t-test between 2 groups. Results Compared to placebo, Omega-3 fatty acids increased serum irisin (P = 0.044) and decreased serum hs-CRP (P = 0.018) and LDL cholesterol (P = 0.031). Omega-3 fatty acids supplementation did not result in any significant changes in anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, serum lipids except for serum LDL, fasting blood glucose, body composition or serum insulin levels (all P > 0.05). Conclusion Omega-3 fatty acids supplementation could elevate serum irisin in male patients with CAD. Also, these fatty acids may able to decrease serum hs-CRP and LDL cholesterol.