The anti-arrhythmic effects of n-3 PUFAs.

In the past years, in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated several direct and indirect anti-arrhythmic effects of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs), at least in part mediated by anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic properties. Several epidemiological and clinical studies have been conducted to investigate the eventual benefits of fish oils in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. The aim of this paper is to critically review current evidence on the anti-arrhythmic effects of n-3 PUFAs in the prevention of sudden cardiac death (SCD) and atrial fibrillation (AF). Published data are conflicting, but some benefits have been reported in the prevention of SCD after myocardial infarction and of AF, generally after long-course administration.