Influence of omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats in liver diseases

Abstract Generally, fatty acids (FA) are classified into saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). Different fatty acids of the same class may demonstrate beneficial or harmful effects, with implications on disease progression or prevention. The antiinflammatory effects have been shown by essential omega-3 fatty acids while omega-6 fatty acids have exhibited proinflammatory responses. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) varies from the accumulation of simple triglycerides in hepatocytes (steatosis) to the most frequent chronic hepatic disease, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). It causes complications related to the liver such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Currently, the management of NAFLD includes lifestyle interventional strategies to increase regular physical activity and to decrease body weight. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) have exhibited antiphlogistic and antisteatotic effects. These exert their beneficial effect via modifying fatty acid composition and the modulation of hepatocyte activity during liver fibrosis. The purpose of this chapter is to summarize all the possible activities of omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats in liver diseases.