Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a fundamental fatty acid for the brain: New Dietary Sources

Publication date: Available online 14 August 2017
Source:Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids (PLEFA)
Author(s): Francisca Echeverría, Rodrigo Valenzuela, María Catalina Hernandez-Rodas, Alfonso Valenzuela
Docosahexaenoic acid (C22: 6 n-3, DHA) is a long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid of marine origin fundamental for the formation and function of the nervous system, particularly the brain and the retina of humans. It has been proposed a remarkable role of DHA during human evolution, mainly on the growth and development of the brain. Currently, DHA is considered a critical nutrient during pregnancy and breastfeeding due their active participation in the development of the nervous system in early life. DHA and specifically one of its derivatives known as neuroprotectin D-1 (NPD-1), has neuroprotective properties against brain aging, neurodegenerative diseases and injury caused after brain ischemia-reperfusion episodes. This paper discusses the importance of DHA in the human brain given its relevance in the development of the tissue and as neuroprotective agent. It is also included a critical view about the ways to supply this noble fatty acid to the population.



from # All Medicine by Alexandros G. Sfakianakis via alkiviadis.1961 on Inoreader http://ift.tt/2w6BN3d