Immunomodulation by intravenous omega-3 fatty acid treatment in older subjects hospitalized for COVID-19: a single-blind randomized controlled trial

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) with respiratory distress and systemic hyperinflammation. The primary objective of this single-blind randomized controlled proof-of-concept clinical trial was to establish the effects of intravenous (i.v.) omega-3 (n-3) polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) treatment compared to placebo on inflammatory markers in COVID-19, represented by leukocytes as well as inflammatory protein and lipid mediators. Here we also present an exploratory analysis of the mechanisms of action to elucidate the potential to resolve the COVID-19 hyperinflammation through interfering with lipid mediators. Inclusion criteria were COVID-19 diagnosis and clinical status requiring hospitalization. Randomization was 1:1 to a once daily i.v. infusion (2 mL/kg) of either n-3 PUFA emulsion containing 10g of fish oil per 100 mL or placebo (NaCl) for 5 days. Results from 22 older subjects (mean age 81±6.1 years) were analyzed. The neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio was significantly decreased after n-3 PUFA administration. Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) -based lipid metabolite analysis established increased proresolving lipid mediator precursor levels and decreased formation of leukotoxin and isoleukotoxin diols by n-3 PUFA treatment. The mechanistic exploration revealed decreased immunothrombosis and preserved interferon-response. Finally, n-3 PUFA treatment may serve to limit cortisone-induced immunosuppression, including preserving leukocyte phagocytic capacity. In conclusion, i.v. n-3 PUFA administration was safe and feasible during hospitalization of multimorbid older subjects for COVID-19. The results identified n-3 PUFA treatment mediated lipid signature of increased proresolving precursor levels and decreased leukotoxin diols in parallel to beneficial immune responses. EudraCT: 2020-002293-28; clinicaltrials.gov: NCT04647604.