The effect of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation and transcranial direct current stimulation on plasma cytokines

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) and Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), on plasma inflammatory cytokines as an assessment of potential neuro inflammation. Migraine is a common disabling brain disorder influencing physical, mental, and social dimensions of quality of life. Typically, brain inflammation and migraine treatment are through pharmacologic means that often do not have beneficial outcomes. N-3 PUFA ingestion benefits brain development and function. tDCS modulates neuronal excitability by altering the resting membrane potential of a stimulated neuron, leading to a brain benefit. We hypothesized that intake of n-3 PUFA and tDCS sessions, alone or in concert, may balance the pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines related to brain inflammation and migraine leading to a reduction in symptoms.