Migraine, a disorder influenced by genetics and characterized by multiple factors involving neurological, glial, and vascular systems, ranks as the second most debilitating condition worldwide, impacting the health of over one billion individuals globally (1). While there are established pharmacological guidelines for the prevention of migraines (2, 3), a significant number of patients still experience unmet needs, with many not benefiting from or failing to respond to preventative treatments (4, 5).

Migraine manifests as recurrent bouts of moderate to severe headache lasting between 4 to 72 h, typically one-sided, and accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light (photophobia), sensitivity to sound (phonophobia), and/or vomiting (6, 7). Its underlying mechanisms are multifaceted, encompassing genetic variations, environmental influences, cerebral artery constriction, abnormalities in monoamine neurotransmitters, oxidative stress, mitochondrial disturbances, the involvement of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), neurogenic inflammation, and broader neuroinflammation (6). The once-prevailing vascular theory, which posited that headaches stem from dilation of dural and extracranial blood vessels, has been refuted, with such vasodilation now regarded as an effect rather than a cause of migraines (8). The prevailing theory suggests that migraine is a neurovascular disorder initiated within the central nervous system (CNS), characterized by an increased sensitivity of the trigeminovascular system (TVS) leading to pain. From a neurobiological standpoint, the development and intensification of migraine into a debilitating condition involve intricate interactions between neurons, glial cells, vascular components, and inflammatory mediators within the TVS (6, 9–12). The interactions within the TVS, immune cells, and ongoing neurogenic or neuroinflammatory responses play significant roles in migraine pathophysiology, potentially leading to the establishment of chronic maladaptive pain.

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are vital micronutrients for neurological health. These fatty acids play a key role in numerous physiological processes and have shown benefits in managing cardiovascular, neurological, and psychiatric conditions, demonstrating a well-tolerated side effect profile (13–15). Specifically, omega-3 PUFAs and their derivatives exhibit strong anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive, and neuromodulatory effects, impacting the pathophysiology of migraines (14, 16, 17). Moreover, various specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) produced from omega-3 PUFAs help in moderating undue neuroinflammatory responses and inflammatory pain, facilitating communication between glial cells and neurons. This could significantly contribute to the mitigation of migraine symptoms (18). This paper aims to outline the neuroimmunological actions of omega-3 PUFAs in migraine prevention and offer an up-to-date review on this subject.

Migraines can be categorized into five distinct phases: the prodrome, a possible aura, the headache attack, the postdrome (recovery stage), and the interictal phase. However, not all individuals experience every stage (19). The prodrome, marking the initial clinical phase of a migraine, manifests through symptoms believed to result from hypothalamic activation, such as difficulty concentrating, fatigue, yawning, neck stiffness, feelings of depression, and irritability (20, 21). In the lead-up to the migraine, alterations in the connectivity between the hypothalamus, brainstem, spinal trigeminal nuclei, and the dorsal rostral pons in the hindbrain have been noted as early as 48 h before the pain onset. Additionally, specific brainstem activations have been recorded 24 h before the headache begins (22, 23). These findings suggest that the genesis of migraine attacks is associated with intrinsic brain dysfunction in more central regions, including the diencephalic nuclei.

The aura phenomenon, representing a temporary dysfunction of the CNS, occurs in 25% of migraines (22, 23). Cortical spreading depression (CSD), characterized by a strong wave of neuronal depolarization accompanied by glial and vascular activation, is widely believed to underlie the aura phase of migraines (24). During CSD, an excitatory wave sweeps across the cerebral cortex, altering the cerebral blood supply, enhancing neuronal excitability, and triggering the release of neuroactive peptides. This results in focal hyperemia with increased tissue metabolism that persists for minutes and is succeeded by a wave of neuronal depolarization and significant oligemia (25). CSD has been demonstrated to activate the trigeminovascular system (TVS) both centrally and peripherally by exposing the dura to inflammatory molecules, indicating that susceptibility to CSD may contribute to the initiation of migraine attacks (26, 27). Furthermore, migraines with aura have been linked to neuroinflammation, as evidenced by preclinical models and imaging studies of the human migraine condition (28).

The headache phase follows the prodromal or aura stages of a migraine, marked by the activation and sensitization of the trigeminovascular system (TVS) and brainstem, leading to disrupted sensory processing and various neurological symptoms indicative of altered brain excitability (29). The activation of TVS pain pathways triggers the release of pro-inflammatory neuropeptides and neurotransmitters such as CGRP, substance P, PACAP, VIP, and NO. These molecules interact with receptors on meningeal blood vessels and the dura mater, causing vasodilation, activation of nociceptive fibers, and an inflammatory response (8, 12). CGRP, a potent vasodilator presents in both peripheral and central neurons, plays a crucial role in neurogenic inflammation and sensitization (30). CGRP released from cutaneous trigeminal nerve fibers and acts on surrounding Schwann cells, perpetuating cutaneous allodynia through a cyclic AMP-dependent mechanism that generates NO in endosomes (31). Inflammatory by-products and oxidative stress can stimulate CGRP receptors, indicating their role as detectors of environmental oxidative states (32). Signals from dural perivascular neurons instigate a sequence of events that lead to the release of inflammatory mediators, sterile meningeal inflammation, and sensitization of pain-processing brain regions (33). Afferent fibers from the trigeminal ganglion synapse on neurons in the trigeminal cervical complex (2), and ascending pathways transmit signals to various brain regions, causing pain, cutaneous allodynia, and sensory disturbances like photophobia and phonophobia (6, 34).

The transition from episodic to chronic migraine involves changes in nociceptive thresholds and central sensitization, driven by factors such as high frequency of migraine attacks, overuse of acute medications, obesity, stress, female sex, psychiatric conditions, and low socioeconomic status (34). Significant brain alterations in pain-processing areas, abnormal pain modulation, central sensitization, cortical hyperexcitability, neurogenic inflammation, and ongoing neuroinflammation are central to the development and persistence of chronic migraines (35). Collectively, these findings suggest that in individuals with a genetic predisposition, the pathophysiology of migraine is characterized by repeated activation and sensitization of trigeminal nerves by meningeal inflammation, influenced by significant brain activity and resulting in structural and functional brain changes (36).

Neurogenic inflammation is defined as an acute sterile inflammation triggered by the release of neuropeptides from peripheral nociceptive fibers, leading to plasma protein extravasation and vasodilation (10). The relevance of dural neurogenic inflammation as an initiator and driver of acute migraine attacks has been proposed for decades. Neurogenic inflammatory reactions occur after activation of the TVS in the dura matter due to electrical, chemical stimulation, or the application of an inflammatory soap, rather than by immunological events or pathological microorganisms. Evidence has demonstrated that local sterile meningeal inflammation plays a role in inducing prolonged activation and sensitization of meningeal afferents (5). Neurogenic inflammation in acute migraine attacks is characterized by a TVS activation-induced release of neuropeptides, such as CGRP and substance P, from trigeminal nerve fibers at the dura, which causes increased vascular permeability, plasma protein extravasation, leukocyte infiltration, vasodilation, mast cell degranulation, activation of meningeal nociceptors, and the subsequent release of inflammatory mediators (5). Antidromic axon reflexes may then cause further release of CGRP in the dura (30). Prolonged TVS activation may result in a sustained release of CGRP. The continued activation of C-fibers during recurrent migraine attacks and the ensuing activation of CGRP-related nociception maintain TVS sensitization, thereby promoting migraine chronicity (5, 30).

Neurogenic inflammation refers to an acute, non-infectious inflammation initiated by neuropeptide release from peripheral pain-sensing fibers, causing plasma protein leakage and blood vessel expansion (10). The concept of neurogenic inflammation within the dura mater serving as a catalyst and perpetuator of acute migraine episodes has been considered for many years. This type of inflammation is triggered in the dura mater by activation of the trigeminovascular system (TVS) through electrical or chemical stimuli, or the application of an inflammatory substance, rather than immune or microbial factors. Research indicates that localized sterile inflammation in the meninges contributes to the prolonged activation and sensitization of meningeal sensory nerves (10). In the context of acute migraine, neurogenic inflammation involves the release of neuropeptides such as CGRP and substance P by trigeminal nerve endings within the dura mater. This release leads to increased vascular permeability, plasma protein extravasation, white blood cell infiltration, vasodilation, mast cell breakdown, stimulation of meningeal pain receptors, and further release of inflammatory substances (10). Additionally, antidromic axon reflexes could trigger additional CGRP release in the dura (33). Continuous TVS activation might cause an ongoing discharge of CGRP. The repetitive triggering of C-fibers during migraine attacks and the resultant stimulation of CGRP-mediated pain pathways keep the TVS in a state of heightened sensitivity, thus contributing to the progression of migraine into a chronic condition (10, 33).

Neuroinflammation refers to an inflammatory reaction within the CNS, regulated by cytokines, chemokines, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and secondary messengers such as nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandins (37). These compounds are generated by activated microglia — the CNS’s primary immune cells — and astrocytes, as well as by neurovascular units consisting of neurons, pericytes, and endothelial cells (38). Neuroinflammatory mechanisms have been implicated in both episodic and chronic forms of migraine, regardless of the presence of aura (10).

Two vital types of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are omega-3 and omega-6 PUFAs, named for the position of the first double bond in relation to the end methyl group. Both omega-3 and omega-6 PUFAs play significant roles in cardiovascular, inflammatory, metabolic, neurological, and psychiatric health (14, 49, 50). Omega-3 PUFAs originate from alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), while omega-6 PUFAs come from linoleic acid (LA). These are deemed essential fatty acids because they must be acquired through the diet, as the human body cannot synthesize them independently.

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and linoleic acid (LA) undergo competitive metabolism through two distinct enzymatic pathways. In the liver, a sequence of desaturation, elongation, and β-oxidation reactions converts ALA into EPA and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), while LA is transformed into AA (51). The absence of desaturase enzymes necessary for the interconversion between omega-6 and omega-3 PUFAs renders these two families of PUFAs metabolically distinct and potentially opposed in their physiological functions (52). Omega-3 PUFAs are crucial for brain development and function. DHA represents the most significant omega-3 PUFA in the brain, comprising over 40% of the brain’s total omega-3 content, especially concentrated within the gray matter (13). It plays vital roles in neurotransmission, neuroplasticity, and signal transduction (53). Specifically, DHA significantly influences the biophysical characteristics of neuronal and glial cell membranes, facilitating immunomodulatory effects (13, 54). Both DHA and EPA act as natural ligands for various nuclear receptors, including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, which are abundantly present in microglia and pivotal for the transcriptional regulation of many cellular activities, such as lipid balance and inflammation control (54).

Omega-3 PUFAs play a pivotal role in supporting neurological health and mitigating neuroinflammation through a series of biochemical processes. These processes include influencing membrane fluidity, generating anti-inflammatory mediators, affecting intracellular signaling, and modulating gene expression (17, 80, 81). The extensive physiological actions of omega-3 PUFAs involve neurons, microglia, and astrocytes, facilitating the modulation of neuroinflammation, pain signal propagation, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and mood dysregulation, all of which are integral to the complex pathology of migraines (80, 81). Specifically, omega-3 PUFAs contribute to reducing CNS levels of critical inflammatory mediators like TNF-α, cyclooxygenase-2/NO synthase, and IL-1β. These reductions are believed to alleviate neuroinflammation and neurogenic pain, crucial elements in migraine pathophysiology. Moreover, supplementation with EPA and DHA has been shown to modulate nociceptive responses, potentially through activating the opioid system, offering benefits in neuropathic pain scenarios. Additionally, these fatty acids help rebalance vital neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, essential for the functioning of the trigeminovascular nociceptive pathway, and can inhibit TNF-α expression, potentially reducing cerebral vasodilation implicated in migraine episodes. The noted high efficacy of EPA/DHA supplementation, combined with its favorable acceptability and patient compliance, sets it apart from traditional pharmacological treatments, which often exhibit higher adverse event rates and lower adherence (81). This blend of effectiveness, safety, and tolerability highlights the potential of omega-3 PUFAs in offering a more comprehensive and patient-centric approach to migraine management, thus enhancing the quality of life for those affected by this incapacitating ailment.

Omega-3 PUFAs and their metabolites, such as oxylipins and SPMs, potentially offer relief from migraines and aid in mood regulation. They achieve this by modifying the biophysical properties of neuronal and glial cell membranes, suppressing pro-inflammatory mediators, fostering the resolution of inflammation, enhancing mitochondrial stability, and reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) production (55). Discrepancies in clinical outcomes concerning the impact of omega-3 PUFA supplementation on the frequency, severity, and duration of migraines may be attributed to methodological variations. These include differences in dosages, PUFA ratios, treatment durations, study sample sizes, and the heterogeneity of study populations, especially concerning medical and psychiatric comorbidities (17, 80, 81).

Regarding the potential short-term and long-term side effects associated with high-dose omega-3 supplementation, concerns about bleeding risks have been meticulously evaluated. However, current research suggests that daily doses of up to 4 grams are generally safe, even in conjunction with antiplatelet or anticoagulant therapies (82). Although mild gastrointestinal symptoms might occur, severe adverse effects are rare. It’s critical to recognize that PUFAs are vulnerable to lipid oxidative degradation caused by free radicals, potentially presenting health risks over extended periods (83). Presently, there’s a lack of extensive data on the long-term safety and tolerability of high-dose, prolonged omega-3 supplementation, underscoring the need for further investigation (84). Despite these considerations, the broad neuroimmunological regulatory effects of omega-3 PUFAs make them compelling candidates as therapeutic agents or adjuncts in the management of migraines.

Omega-3 PUFAs, specifically EPA and DHA, present significant potential benefits in the prophylaxis of migraines. Emerging evidence, particularly from a comprehensive network meta-analysis (NMA), highlights that high-dosage EPA/DHA supplementation can markedly reduce the frequency and severity of migraines (85). This finding positions these omega-3 PUFAs as a promising treatment option, offering an effective alternative to the currently available pharmacological strategies which typically show limited efficacy and patient acceptability.

Djalali et al. (86) conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial over 8 weeks with 40 patients prone to episodic migraines, finding that omega-3 PUFAs supplementation increased anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-4 and decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine IFN-γ levels, suggesting a potential beneficial effect on inflammatory responses in migraine patients. Rist et al. (87) utilized a two-by-two factorial design over 4.6 years with 25,871 middle-aged or older adults, including 1,032 with a history of probable migraine, and found that neither vitamin D nor marine omega-3 PUFAs supplementation affected migraine frequency or severity compared to a placebo. Honarvar et al. (88) in an 8-week randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with 80 individuals experiencing episodic migraines, discovered that the combination of omega-3 PUFAs and nano-curcumin significantly reduced migraine attack frequency and serum levels of IL-1β in a synergistic manner, though the initial significant reduction in IL-1β gene expression did not remain significant after Bonferroni corrections. Soares et al. (89), through a 60-day prospective, experimental, controlled, double-blind study with 60 patients diagnosed with chronic migraine, predominantly women, observed that omega-3 PUFAs intake led to a significant reduction in headache days, indicating the benefit of omega-3 PUFAs in migraine prophylaxis. Abdolahi et al. (90) evaluated the effects of omega-3 PUFAs and nano-curcumin supplementation over 8 weeks in 80 episodic migraine patients, noting a decrease in IL-6 and hs-CRP levels, with a potential synergistic effect in the combination group. Harel et al. (91), in a 16-week randomized, double-blind, cross-over study with 27 adolescents suffering from migraines, suggested that dietary supplementation with fish oil rich in very long-chain omega-3 PUFAs could reduce the frequency, duration, and severity of migraines, a benefit also observed with olive oil. Pradalier et al. (92) conducted a 16-week randomized, double-blind, controlled trial with 196 patients, finding that omega-3 PUFAs significantly reduced the total number of migraine attacks compared to placebo, though a strong placebo effect was observed, and the study did not confirm earlier findings from smaller studies. The outcomes of these interventions have demonstrated inconsistency, with previous research predominantly focusing on mixed types of PUFAs (EPA combined with DHA) rather than examining EPA or DHA individually. Recently, Wang et al. (93) carried out a 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving seventy individuals with episodic migraine, splitting them into two groups: 35 received 2 g of fish oil containing 1.8 g of EPA daily, while the other 35 were given 2 g of soybean oil daily as a placebo. The intervention showed significant effects, with the EPA group experiencing fewer monthly migraine days, reduced usage of headache medication, and improvements in headache severity (VAS score), disability (MIDAS score), anxiety and depression (HADS score), and quality of life (MSQ score). The main findings highlight that high-dose EPA substantially reduced migraine frequency and severity, improved psychological symptoms, and enhanced the quality of life for episodic migraine patients, suggesting its potential as an effective prophylactic, particularly for female patients.

Table 1 summarized that omega-3 fatty acids have the potential to modulate inflammatory responses and reduce migraine frequency or severity in certain populations, particularly when used in combination with other supplements like nano-curcumin. However, the effectiveness appears to be influenced by various factors including age, baseline health status, and the presence of other nutritional interventions, necessitating further research to clarify the conditions under which omega-3 supplementation might be most beneficial for migraine sufferers.

Omega-3 PUFAs could provide advantages for enhancing migraine management; however, prior randomized controlled trials, reviews, and meta-analyses have yielded inconsistent results regarding symptom improvement (17). Before omega-3 PUFAs can be endorsed for use either as a primary or supplementary option for migraine prevention, key challenges must be resolved. These include fine-tuning dosages, formulations, and the ratios of PUFAs, along with identifying the optimal durations for treatment.

Historically, omega-3 supplements were derived from fatty fish species such as salmon, mullet, and mackerel. However, increased fish demand due to the expansion of aquaculture, pressure on dwindling marine species, and marine pollution have prompted the search for alternative omega-3 PUFA sources (94). In light of these concerns, sources such as seeds, herbs, genetically engineered plants, microalgae, macroalgae, and thraustochytrids are now being investigated for the development of vegan omega-3 PUFA commercial products (83). Lipids are prone to oxidation, leading to the formation of unsaturated carbonyls and harmful by-products during extraction, storage, and processing (95). With a shift in consumer preferences towards natural products over synthetic ones, there has been an increased emphasis on incorporating natural antioxidants (94). Micro- and nano-encapsulation presents an effective strategy for shielding core PUFAs from oxygen, light, and transition metals, thereby improving their oxidative stability and bioactivities (96).

As there are no definitive markers to determine which patient groups would most benefit from this treatment method, additional research is necessary to clearly define the demographic and clinical factors linked to treatment efficacy (85). These factors include age, sex, existing comorbidities, targeted symptoms, blood biomarkers, and specific treatment protocols, before fully endorsing the use of omega-3 PUFAs either as an independent treatment or in conjunction with other medications for migraine management (80). Furthermore, conducting risk–benefit evaluations of omega-3 PUFA administration is crucial, aimed at identifying patient groups for whom omega-3 PUFA therapy would present an optimal risk–benefit balance (97).

The favorable impacts of omega-3 PUFAs on the neurovascular microenvironment indicate their potential to influence neural and immune cells in the brain through various physical and biochemical pathways, leading to outcomes such as anti-inflammatory, anti-nociceptive, antioxidative, and mood regulation. Omega-3 PUFAs might play a crucial role in sustaining both physical and mental health, as well as managing neuropsychiatric symptoms during the acute and chronic phases of migraines. Despite the lack of definitive evidence from well-conducted randomized trials on the effectiveness of regular daily omega-3 PUFA supplementation in mitigating migraine symptoms for those with episodic or chronic migraines, the overall positive effects in different areas (e.g., immune, neurological, psychiatric, and cardiovascular) suggest that omega-3 PUFAs could be considered as potential health supplements or adjuncts in migraine prevention and treatment. To fully explore and leverage the neuroimmunological effects of omega-3 PUFA bioactivities for migraine prevention and treatment, extensive epidemiological studies, experimental research, and randomized controlled trials are essential for thorough testing, validation, and effective implementation.

T-BC: Conceptualization, Data curation, Formal analysis, Investigation, Methodology, Resources, Writing – original draft. C-CY: Conceptualization, Formal analysis, Investigation, Resources, Writing – original draft. I-JT: Conceptualization, Data curation, Formal analysis, Investigation, Methodology, Writing – original draft. H-WY: Data curation, Investigation, Writing – original draft. Y-CH: Investigation, Supervision, Writing – review & editing. C-MC: Investigation, Methodology, Project administration, Supervision, Validation, Writing – review & editing. C-PY: Conceptualization, Project administration, Supervision, Validation, Writing – review & editing.