Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and brain aging
Current Opinion in Clinical Nutrition and Metabolic Care. 2015-03-01; 18(2): 139-146
DOI: 10.1097/MCO.0000000000000141
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Denis I(1), Potier B, Heberden C, Vancassel S.
Author information:
(1)aUnité de Neurobiologie de l’Olfaction, NBO U1197, INRA, Jouy-en-Josas
bINSERM UMR 894, Centre de Psychiatrie et Neurosciences, Paris cUnité MICALIS,
UMR 1319, INRA, Jouy-en-Josas dUnité NutriNeurO, UMR INRA 1286, Université
Victor Segalen Bordeaux 2, Bordeaux, France.
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The literature on the influence of dietary omega-3
polyunsaturated fatty acid (ω-3 PUFA) on brain aging has grown exponentially
during the last decade. Many avenues have been explored but no global picture or
clear evidence has emerged. Experimental studies have shown that ω-3 PUFA is
involved in many neurobiological processes that are involved in
neurotransmission and neuroprotection, indicating that these PUFAs may prevent
age-related brain damage. Human studies have revealed only a weak link between
ω-3 PUFA status and cognitive aging, whereas interventional studies have yet to
confirm it. The purpose of this review is to analyze the developments in the
area during the last 2 years.
RECENT FINDINGS: Human brain MRI studies have confirmed previous findings that
ω-3 PUFA can protect the brain during aging; two intervention studies obtained
clear evidence. We also analyzed the experimental data clarifying the
involvement of ω-3 PUFA in neurotransmission, neuroprotection (including
prevention of peroxidation, inflammation, and excitotoxicity), and neurogenesis,
thereby helping the brain cope with aging.
SUMMARY: These recent human and experimental studies provide support for and
clarification of how ω-3 PUFA protect against brain aging and highlight the main
lines for future research.
DOI: 10.1097/MCO.0000000000000141
PMID: 25501348 [Indexed for MEDLINE]