Key Findings:
ALA has an inhibitory effect on activation and secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF‐α, IL‐6, IL‐1, GM‐CSF (granulocyte‐macrophage colony stimulating factor). This research showed that flaxseed oil treatment significantly reduced joint swelling and showed anti-arthritic activity. Serum TNF‐α levels, the tissue expression of TNF‐R1 and IL‐6 as well as granuloma formation in the subcutaneous cotton pellet implantation model were all significantly reduced by ALA. These actions were superior to the anti-inflammatory medication, indomethacin. ALA may play role in reducing chronic inflammatory disorders such as arthritis.
ABSTRACT:
Food sources rich in omega‐3 fatty acids have been valued for their beneficial effect in the management of inflammatory disorders. The present study evaluates the anti-arthritic and immunomodulatory activity of Linum usitatissimum fixed oil (LUFO) in experimental models. The LUFO produced a dose‐dependent reduction in joint swelling and circulating TNF‐α levels in both preventive and curative protocols of arthritis induced by complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA). Expression of TNF‐R1 and Interleukin (IL) 6 proteins in the arthritic paw was also significantly reduced in the LUFO‐treated animals. In the cotton pellet induced granuloma model, LUFO treatment significantly reduced the dry granuloma weight as compared with the control group. Results of our present study thus demonstrate the anti-arthritic and disease modifying activity of LUFO. We believe that dietary incorporation of LUFO may be beneficial in the prevention and management of rheumatoid arthritis and other chronic inflammatory disorders. (Authors abstract)
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