Abstract
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3-PUFAs) are dietary components that have been extensively recognized for their therapeutic value and have shown diverse therapeutic effects including anti-inflammatory, antiarrhythmic, antithrombotic, immunomodulatory and antineoplastic activities. Most of the omega-3-PUFAs are obtained through diet or supplements because the body does not synthesize them. The high instability of omega-3-PUFAs to oxidative deterioration, lower bioavailability at the target tissues and reduced bioactivity of omega-3-PUFAs is an impediment for achieving their therapeutic potential. The present review provides an overview of potential therapeutic activities of omega-3-PUFAs and different novel technical approaches based on nanotechnology, which have been emphasized to overcome instability problems as well as enhance the bioactivity of omega-3-PUFAs. Future prospects related to this area of research are also provided.