Role of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Modulating Retinal Microvascular Changes in Type 1 Diabetes
Role of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Modulating Retinal Microvascular Changes in Type 1 Diabetes
This double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial evaluates the effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on retinal vascular structure and function in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes. The study compares omega-3 supplementation with placebo to assess changes in retinal microvascular parameters, retinal blood flow, visual function, and systemic biomarkers over time, as well as the safety and tolerability of supplementation during the study period.
Type 1 diabetes mellitus is associated with early retinal microvascular and hemodynamics alterations that may precede clinically visible diabetic retinopathy. Omega-3 fatty acids have been reported to exert anti-inflammatory, vasoprotective, and neuroprotective effects, and may therefore help preserve retinal vascular integrity and ocular blood flow in individuals with diabetes. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was designed to evaluate the effects of omega-3 supplementation on retinal vascular structure and function in children with type 1 diabetes.
Participants were randomized to receive either omega-3 supplementation or placebo and were followed longitudinally over the study period. Serial ophthalmic and systemic assessments were performed to examine changes in retinal microvascular parameters, retinal blood flow, visual function, and selected systemic biomarkers.
Type 1 Diabetes with earliest changes i.e. microaneurysms or changes in retinal vessels