Dietary ω‐3 fatty acid supplementation for optimizing neuronal structure and function

Abstract

Direct actions of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on neuronal composition, neurochemical signaling and cognitive function constitute a multidisciplinary rationale for classification of dietary lipids as "brain foods." The validity of this conclusion rests upon accumulated mechanistic evidence that omega-3 fatty acids actually regulate neurotransmission in the normal nervous system, principally by modulating membrane biophysical properties and presynaptic vesicular release of classical amino acid and amine neurotransmitters. The functional correlate of this hypothesis, that certain information processing and affective coping responses of the central nervous system are facilitated by bioavailability of omega-3 fatty acids, is tentatively supported by developmental and epidemiological evidence that dietary deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids results in diminished synaptic plasticity and impaired learning, memory and emotional coping performance later in life. The present review critically examines available evidence for the promotion in modern society of omega-3 fatty acids as adaptive neuromodulators capable of efficacy as dietary supplements and as potential prophylactic nutraceuticals for neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders.

Long-term High-Soybean Oil Feeding Alters Regulation of Body Temperature in Rats

“…In contrast, there are several reports that FAs can influence membrane fluidity or characteristics of receptors/ion channels in the cell mem- brane. The FA composition in the CNS can also be changed by high-fat diets 4,14) ; thus, a high-fat diet probably influences membrane functions of neurons and glia. Li et al reported that cells cultured in eicosapentaenoic acid-rich medium show decreased caveolin-1 and eNOS protein expression in caveolae, along with changes in the FA profiles of the caveolae.…”

“…[1][2][3] However, recent reports demonstrate that lipids not only influence metabolisms, but also neuronal function in the central nervous system (CNS). [4][5][6] Psychiatric disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and depression are suggested to be influenced by fat intake. [7][8][9] These are probably brought through qualitative and quantitative changes in adipokines and/or lipid mediators after high-fat diet feeding.…”

“…The FA composition in the CNS can also be changed by fat intake. 4,14) Body temperature (BT) is maintained at the constant level on balance of heat production and expenditure in whole living body. The control center for BT is located in the preoptic area and/or the organum vasculosum of the lamina terminalis of the hypothalamus, and these neurons regulate metabolism resulting in heat production.…”

The Use of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Mental Illness

“…1 Therefore, the majority of long-chain fatty acids are derived from dietary sources. [1][2][3][4][7][8][9] When a person is deficient in omega-3 fatty acids, there is increased incorporation of omega-6 fatty acids in cell membranes leading to stiffer, less flexible cell membranes. [1][2][3][7][8][9][10] Thus, the ratio of omega-6 fatty acids to omega-3 fatty acids is essential for normal neuronal functioning.…”

“…Thus, adequate production of EPA-derived eicosanoids is necessary for proper functioning of AA-derived eicosanoids. [1][2][3][4][5][6][7] DHA is converted into the docosanoids, a group of bioactive molecules possessing anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. Resolvins, one type of docosanoids, are important in counteracting proinflammatory responses to omega-6 fatty acids.…”