Researchers have identified the molecular mechanism that makes omega-3 fatty acids so effective in reducing chronic inflammation and insulin resistance.

Jerrold Olefsky, MD, and his team have identified a key receptor on macrophages found in body fat. Omega-3s activate this macrophage receptor, creating a broad anti-inflammatory effect and improved systemic insulin sensitivity.

Because obesity and diabetes are almost always interrelated, it’s important to understand how the science works in our bodies.

Macrophages: White Blood Cells on Cellular Garbage Patrol

Macrophages are specialized white blood cells that work to cleanup cellular devices and pathogens. As part of the immune system response, the macrophages secrete cytokines and other proteins that cause inflammation, as part of their debris destruction mission.

Obese fat tissues contain a lot of ‘garbage’, creating lots of macrophages producing lots of sytokines. The result is chronic inflammation and rising insulin resistance, leading to improperly regulated blood sugar levels and many health problems, including diabetes.

The Olefsky team narrowed their focus to a G-protein receptor called GPR120, a receptor found only on pro-inflammatory macrophages in mature fat cells.