Neurological Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Abstract

The central nervous system is highly enriched in long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) of the omega-6 and omega-3 series. The presence of these fatty acids as structural components of neuronal membranes influences cellular function both directly, through effects on membrane properties, and also by acting as a precursor pool for lipid-derived messengers. An adequate intake of omega-3 PUFA is essential for optimal visual function and neural development. Furthermore, there is increasing evidence that increased intake of the long-chain omega-3 PUFA, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), may confer benefits in a variety of psychiatric and neurological disorders, and in particular neurodegenerative conditions. However, the mechanisms underlying these beneficial effects are still poorly understood. Recent evidence also indicates that in addition to the positive effects seen in chronic neurodegenerative conditions, omega-3 PUFA may also have significant neuroprotective potential in acute neurological injury. Thus, these compounds offer an intriguing prospect as potentially new therapeutic approaches in both chronic and acute conditions. The purpose of this article is to review the current evidence of the neurological benefits of omega-3 PUFA, looking specifically at neurodegenerative conditions and acute neurological injury.

A High Omega-3 Fatty Acid Diet Reduces Retinal Lesions in a Murine Model of Macular Degeneration

“…2 beneficial effects of n-3 fatty acids in various physiological and pathological situations are well-documented. 22 The n-3 fatty acids act as an energy source as well as an important unique cell component, especially in cellular membranes. DHA is particularly rich in retinal photoreceptor outer segments.…”

“…DHA is particularly rich in retinal photoreceptor outer segments. 22 The highest concentrations in the body for DHA per unit area are found in the photoreceptor disk membranes and the overall percentage of DHA can reach 50% of total retinal fatty acids. 23,24 The unique fatty acid composition in retinal photoreceptor outer segment disk membranes is essential for maintaining a healthy retina.…”

“…5 Neuronal membranes are composed of high levels of PUFA, especially DHA and arachidonic acids. 22 Arachidonic acid (C20:4n-6) is the substrate for the synthesis of a range of biologically active compounds (eicosanoids) including prostaglandins, thromboxanes, and leukotrienes. These compounds can act as mediators in leukocyte chemotaxis and inflammatory cytokine production.…”

Distinctive effects of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids in regulating neural stem cell fate are mediated via endocannabinoid signalling pathways

“…Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are essential for brain development and function and an elevated intake of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) may provide benefit in a range of neurological and neurodegenerative conditions (Dyall and Michael-Titus, 2008). EPA and DHA enhance adult hippocampal neurogenesis in a variety of animal models (Dyall, 2011b) and DHA has consistently been shown to promote differentiation of neural stem cells (NSCs) (Katakura et al, 2009;Kawakita et al, 2006;Ma et al, 2010;Rashid et al, 2013).…”

Does consumption of polyunsaturated fatty acids influence on neurorehabilitation in traumatic spinal cord-injured individuals? a double-blinded clinical trial

“…12 Its probable positive effects have been shown on Alzheimer's disease 13 and Huntington 14 in human models, however, its effect on acute neural injury such as acute traumatic SCI have been only investigated on experimental laboratory models and have shown promising outcomes. 4,15,16 Previously, neuroprotective effect of omega 3 PUFAs was observed in acute phase of SCI.…”