Sydney, Apr 11 (IANS): Omega-3 agents could potentially block the path of primary cancer tumours, preventing more advanced cancers, according to researchers.

Michael Murray, professor of pharmogenetics at the University of Sydney University, says a life endangering consequence of malignant breast tumours is metastasis (disease spreading to distant sites or tissues) and at present there are no treatments.

He led his team to the discovery of the anti-metastatic actions of epoxides (omega-3 agents) which are produced within the body from omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, according to a Sydney statement.

Murray says: "These agents are a bit like frontline soldiers blocking the assault of an invading army and now we want to advance our research which was published late last year and apply it to breast cancer cells.

"We know that epidemiological studies have reported that dietary intake of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, decrease the risk of certain cancers. And many of us are including sources of omega-3 such as tuna and salmon in our diet as a precaution.

"Longer term we are aiming to develop a completely new class of anti-metastatic drugs designed to inhibit the spread of primary cancers," Murray says.