pThe role of major dietary omega-3 fatty acids 8486-3 alpha-linolenic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid in human health has generated enormous scientific interest and many controversies in recent years. Due to a growing number of studies with conflicting or even negative clinical results, the former hype of 8486-3 thought to be beneficial in many aspects of human health regardless of the physiological and clinical preconditions is now being critically re-evaluated, especially with respect to the potential role of 8486-3 fatty acid supplementation in preventing a variety of diseases and clinical conditions. This critical view reflects the complex interaction of 8486-3 with cell membranes and their integrated proteins mediating signal transduction, transport systems, and other processes. Moreover, 8486-3 are precursors of bioactive metabolites, such as eicosanoids, lipoxins, resolvins, protectins, maresins, and nitrolipids that influence several physiological and patho