1
|
Bozzatello P, Novelli R, Montemagni C, Rocca P, Bellino S. Nutraceuticals in Psychiatric Disorders: A Systematic Review. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4824. [PMID: 38732043 PMCID: PMC11084672 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Correct nutrition and diet are directly correlated with mental health, functions of the immune system, and gut microbiota composition. Diets with a high content of some nutrients, such as fibers, phytochemicals, and short-chain fatty acids (omega-3 fatty acids), seem to have an anti-inflammatory and protective action on the nervous system. Among nutraceuticals, supplementation of probiotics and omega-3 fatty acids plays a role in improving symptoms of several mental disorders. In this review, we collect data on the efficacy of nutraceuticals in patients with schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorders, major depression, bipolar disorder, and personality disorders. This narrative review aims to provide an overview of recent evidence obtained on this topic, pointing out the direction for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paola Bozzatello
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Turin, Via Cherasco 15, 10126 Turin, Italy; (R.N.); (C.M.); (P.R.); (S.B.)
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Smolińska K, Szopa A, Sobczyński J, Serefko A, Dobrowolski P. Nutritional Quality Implications: Exploring the Impact of a Fatty Acid-Rich Diet on Central Nervous System Development. Nutrients 2024; 16:1093. [PMID: 38613126 PMCID: PMC11013435 DOI: 10.3390/nu16071093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 04/05/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Given the comprehensive examination of the role of fatty acid-rich diets in central nervous system development in children, this study bridges significant gaps in the understanding of dietary effects on neurodevelopment. It delves into the essential functions of fatty acids in neurodevelopment, including their contributions to neuronal membrane formation, neuroinflammatory modulation, neurogenesis, and synaptic plasticity. Despite the acknowledged importance of these nutrients, this review reveals a lack of comprehensive synthesis in current research, particularly regarding the broader spectrum of fatty acids and their optimal levels throughout childhood. By consolidating the existing knowledge and highlighting critical research gaps, such as the effects of fatty acid metabolism on neurodevelopmental disorders and the need for age-specific dietary guidelines, this study sets a foundation for future studies. This underscores the potential of nutritional strategies to significantly influence neurodevelopmental trajectories, advocating an enriched academic and clinical understanding that can inform dietary recommendations and interventions aimed at optimizing neurological health from infancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Smolińska
- Chronic Wounds Laboratory, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki St. 7, 20-093 Lublin, Poland;
| | - Aleksandra Szopa
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Care, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki St. 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.S.); (J.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Jan Sobczyński
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Care, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki St. 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.S.); (J.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Anna Serefko
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Care, Medical University of Lublin, Chodźki St. 1, 20-093 Lublin, Poland; (A.S.); (J.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Piotr Dobrowolski
- Department of Functional Anatomy and Cytobiology, Maria Curie Sklodowska University, Akademicka St. 19, 20-033 Lublin, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Vöckel J, Markser A, Wege L, Wunram HL, Sigrist C, Koenig J. Pharmacological anti-inflammatory treatment in children and adolescents with depressive symptoms: A systematic-review and meta-analysis. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol 2024; 78:16-29. [PMID: 37864981 DOI: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2023.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/23/2023]
Abstract
Growing evidence suggests an association between inflammatory processes and depressive disorders (DD). DD typically emerge during adolescence. Treatment effects of agents with anti-inflammatory properties in youth DD have not been systematically reviewed. Here, the existing evidence on the use of anti-inflammatory drugs (including polyunsaturated fatty acids, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, cytokine inhibitors, statins, pioglitazone, corticosteroids, and minocycline or modafinil) in children and adolescents with DD was synthesized using meta-analysis. The PROSPERO preregistered search yielded 22 records meeting search criteria. Of these, data from 19 primary studies (n = 1366 subjects) were subjected to meta-analysis. A significant but small effect in favor of anti-inflammatory agents in reducing depressive symptoms in youth with DD was found (SMD = -0.29, 95 % CI = -0.514; -0.063, p = 0.01). Post-hoc analyzes of drug subclasses found a significant effect of omega-3 fatty acids in reducing depressive symptoms. Results underline the importance to consider inflammatory pathways in the supplemental treatment of youth with DD. Further research is warranted, to clarify if anti-inflammatory agents are only effective in a subpopulation of patients (inflammatory biotype of depression in youth) and/or to alleviate specific symptom domains of depression (e.g., cognitive symptoms).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jasper Vöckel
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Germany.
| | - Anna Markser
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Germany
| | - Lisa Wege
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Germany
| | - Heidrun Lioba Wunram
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Germany; University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department of Pediatrics, Germany
| | - Christine Sigrist
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Germany
| | - Julian Koenig
- University of Cologne, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Fang M, Fan Z, Liu S, Feng S, Zhu H, Yin D, Jia H, Wang G. Preventive interventions for individuals at risk of developing bipolar disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Affect Disord 2023; 340:53-63. [PMID: 37459972 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to explore whether early interventions can reduce affective symptoms and have long-term benefits among individuals at risk of bipolar disorder (BD). METHODS The PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched. The primary outcome was continuous symptom scores before and after treatment. Random effects meta-analyses were conducted for each outcome arm studied and pooled mean difference estimates were calculated. RESULTS The search identified 10 controlled studies involving 425 participants and 6 single-arm studies involving 90 participants. For controlled trials, meta-analysis showed that the interventions led to greater reduction in clinical global score than placebo (standardized mean differences (SMD) = -0.96, 95 % CI:-1.32, -0.60), and supported a long-term longitudinal effect for pharmacotherapy (SMD = -0.42, 95 % CI: -0.79, -0.05). For single-arm trials, both pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy showed efficacy for depressive symptoms, while pharmacotherapy only showed efficacy for hypomania symptoms (effect size (ES) = -9.16, 95 % CI:-11.29, -7.04). Discontinuation of pharmacotherapy due to adverse effects did not show a difference. LIMITATIONS The primary limitations are the small number of RCTs and the influence of medication dosage. CONCLUSIONS Based on the limited available data, early interventions show efficacy for individuals at risk of BD. Psychological therapy might be more beneficial for depressive symptoms and have long-term benefits for hypomania. Pharmacotherapy may be appropriate in situations of severe hypomanic symptoms and the poor functioning. Large, well-designed, double-blind -controlled trials are needed to make solid conclusions about the efficacy of early interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meng Fang
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital & the Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zili Fan
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital & the Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Shanshan Liu
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital & the Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Sitong Feng
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital & the Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Zhu
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital & the Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Dongqing Yin
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital & the Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hongxiao Jia
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital & the Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Gang Wang
- The National Clinical Research Center for Mental Disorders & Beijing Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Beijing Anding Hospital & the Advanced Innovation Center for Human Brain Protection, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Helmink FGL, Vandeleur CL, Preisig M, Gunput STG, Hillegers MHJ, Mesman E. Functional outcomes across development in offspring of parents with bipolar disorder. J Affect Disord 2023; 340:490-505. [PMID: 37467795 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2023.07.072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Whereas the risk and course of psychopathology in offspring of parents with bipolar disorder (BD) have been the primary focus of high-risk offspring studies to date, functional outcomes have not been given much attention. We present a systematic review of functional outcomes and quality of life (QoL) across development in offspring of parents with BD and aim to explore the role of offspring psychopathology in these outcomes. METHOD We searched Embase, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Cochrane Central, and Google Scholar from inception to June 24, 2022, for studies referring to functional outcomes (global, social, academic or occupational) or QoL in offspring of parents with BD. RESULTS From the 6470 records identified, 39 studies were retained (global = 17; social = 17; school = 16; occupational = 3; QoL = 5), including 13 studies that examined multiple domains. For all domains, high heterogeneity was found in study methods and quality. Only 56 % of studies adjusted for offspring psychopathology, impeding interpretation. Global and social functioning generally seemed to be impaired among older offspring (>16 years). Academic performance appeared to be unaffected. School behavior, occupational functioning, and QoL showed mixed results. Offspring psychopathology is associated with social functioning, but the relationship of offspring psychopathology with other domains is less clear. CONCLUSION Studies on functional outcome in offspring of parents with BD show predominantly mixed results. Inconsistent adjustment of psychopathology and age limits conclusive interpretation. Functional outcomes should be prioritized as research topics in high-risk studies and the potential associations between familial risk status, offspring psychopathology, and age may inform prevention strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fleur G L Helmink
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Caroline L Vandeleur
- Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Martin Preisig
- Department of Psychiatry, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Manon H J Hillegers
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Esther Mesman
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry/Psychology, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pruneti C, Guidotti S. Need for Multidimensional and Multidisciplinary Management of Depressed Preadolescents and Adolescents: A Review of Randomized Controlled Trials on Oral Supplementations (Omega-3, Fish Oil, Vitamin D 3). Nutrients 2023; 15:nu15102306. [PMID: 37242190 DOI: 10.3390/nu15102306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Depression is a serious health problem with a high cost for public administration. Epidemiological studies report that one in five children have a mental disorder and about 50% of mental health problems exacerbate in childhood and adolescence. Moreover, the antidepressant efficacy in children and adolescents is poorly demonstrated and can cause severe behavioral adverse events such as suicidal ideation. (2) Methods: This systematic literature review examined oral supplementations (Omega-3, fish oil, Vitamin D3) to treat depressed children, preadolescents, and adolescents. MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, and PsycInfo were searched for articles published in the last five years. Six studies met the eligibility criteria. The inclusion criteria encompassed children, preadolescents, and adolescents, a diagnosis of depression, and an intervention of oral supplementations such as Omega-3, fish oil, and Vitamin D3. (3) Results: Most of the studies demonstrated that dietary intervention provides positive outcomes in terms of depression symptoms. (4) Conclusions: Overall, the results demonstrate a positive effect for oral supplementation suggesting an increase intake of Omega-3, fish oil, and Vitamin D3. However, only a few studies assess the effectiveness of diet recommendations, as a monotherapy or combined treatment, for the management of depression at developmental ages. Thus, there is still a need to further investigate these aspects and to look more specifically at adolescents and preadolescents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Pruneti
- Clinical Psychology, Clinical Psychophysiology, and Clinical Neuropsychology Laboratory, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy
| | - Sara Guidotti
- Clinical Psychology, Clinical Psychophysiology, and Clinical Neuropsychology Laboratory, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Elsayed OH, Pahwa M, El-Mallakh RS. Pharmacologic Treatment and Management of Bipolar Disorder in Adolescents. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2022; 23:1165-1179. [PMID: 35621334 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2022.2083954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The importance of the appropriate therapeutic interventions in children and adolescents with bipolar disorder (BD) cannot be overstated since treatment choices and their consequences may have effects into adulthood. AREAS COVERED Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) investigating treatment of mania, bipolar depression, and maintenance in adolescents with BD are reviewed. When RCTs are not available or are inadequate, naturalistic data or open studies are also reviewed. EXPERT OPINION Efficacy and safety of pharmaceutical agents in adolescents with BD appear to mirror adults with BD. Lithium/mood stabilizers are preferred first line agents over antipsychotic medications, but the latter are second line agents particularly in bipolar depression. When lithium is used, serum levels approaching 1.0 mEq/L are reasonable since younger people appear to require/tolerate higher levels. Among the antipsychotics, quetiapine appeared to be minimally better than risperidone while risperidone was associated with greater adverse events. Antipsychotics with antidepressant activity in adults, also appear to have antidepressant effects in youths. Use of antidepressants in bipolar depression is generally not recommended although it may be reasonable in specific clinical situations. The similarities between adolescent and adult outcomes suggest that it is reasonable to utilize adult data to aid with clinical decision making in adolescents with BD, especially when pediatric-specific data are unavailable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Omar H Elsayed
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Louisville, Kentucky USA
| | - Mehak Pahwa
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Louisville, Kentucky USA
| | - Rif S El-Mallakh
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Louisville, Kentucky USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
McNamara RK, Li W, Lei D, Tallman MJ, Welge JA, Strawn JR, Patino LR, DelBello MP. Fish oil supplementation alters emotion-generated corticolimbic functional connectivity in depressed adolescents at high-risk for bipolar I disorder: A 12-week placebo-controlled fMRI trial. Bipolar Disord 2022; 24:161-170. [PMID: 34214231 PMCID: PMC8720319 DOI: 10.1111/bdi.13110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of fish oil (FO), a source of the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), on emotion-generated corticolimbic functional connectivity in depressed youth at high risk for developing bipolar I disorder. METHODS Thirty-nine antidepressant-free youth with a current depressive disorder diagnosis and a biological parent with bipolar I disorder were randomized to 12-week double-blind treatment with FO or placebo. At baseline and endpoint, fMRI (4 Tesla) scans were obtained while performing a continuous performance task with emotional and neutral distractors (CPT-END). Seed-to-voxel functional connectivity analyses were performed using bilateral orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) and amygdala (AMY) seeds. Measures of depression, mania, global symptom severity, and erythrocyte fatty acids were obtained. RESULTS Erythrocyte EPA+DHA composition increased significantly in the FO group (+47%, p ≤ 0.0001) but not in the placebo group (-10%, p = 0.11). Significant group by time interactions were found for functional connectivity between the left OFC and the left superior temporal gyrus (STG) and between the right AMY and right inferior temporal gyrus (ITG). OFC-STG connectivity increased in the FO group (p = 0.0001) and decreased in the placebo group (p = 0.0019), and AMY-ITG connectivity decreased in the FO group (p = 0.0014) and increased in the placebo group (p < 0.0001). In the FO group, but not placebo group, the decrease in AMY-ITG functional connectivity correlated with decreases in Childhood Depression Rating Scale-Revised and Clinical Global Impression-Severity Scale scores. CONCLUSIONS In depressed high-risk youth FO supplementation alters emotion-generated corticolimbic functional connectivity which correlates with changes in symptom severity ratings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert K. McNamara
- Corresponding author: Robert K. McNamara, Ph.D., Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, 260 Stetson Street, Cincinnati, OH 45219-0516, PH: 513-558-5601, FAX: 513-558-4805,
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Li W, Lei D, Tallman MJ, Patino LR, Gong Q, Strawn JR, DelBello MP, McNamara RK. Emotion-Related Network Reorganization Following Fish Oil Supplementation in Depressed Bipolar Offspring: An fMRI Graph-Based Connectome Analysis. J Affect Disord 2021; 292:319-327. [PMID: 34139404 PMCID: PMC8282765 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2021.05.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 05/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Mood disorders are associated with fronto-limbic structural and functional abnormalities and deficits in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Emerging evidence also suggests that n-3 PUFA, which are enriched in fish oil, promote cortical plasticity and connectivity. The present study performed a graph-based connectome analysis to investigate the role of n-3 PUFA in emotion-related network organization in medication-free depressed adolescent bipolar offspring. METHODS At baseline patients (n = 53) were compared with healthy controls (n = 53), and patients were then randomized to 12-week double-blind treatment with placebo or fish oil. At baseline and endpoint, erythrocyte EPA+DHA levels were measured and fMRI scans (4 Tesla) were obtained while performing a continuous performance task with emotional and neutral distractors (CPT-END). Graph-based analysis was used to characterize topological properties of large-scale brain network organization. RESULTS Compared with healthy controls, patients exhibited lower erythrocyte EPA+DHA levels (p = 0.0001), lower network clustering coefficients (p = 0.029), global efficiency (p = 0.042), and lower node centrality and connectivity strengths in frontal-limbic regions (p<0.05). Compared with placebo, 12-week fish oil supplementation increased erythrocyte EPA+DHA levels (p<0.001), network clustering coefficient (p = 0.005), global (p = 0.047) and local (p = 0.023) efficiency, and node centralities mainly in temporal regions (p<0.05). LIMITATIONS The duration of fish oil supplementation was relatively short and the sample size was relatively small. CONCLUSIONS These findings provide preliminary evidence that abnormalities in emotion-related network organization observed in depressed high-risk youth may be amenable to modification through fish oil supplementation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenbin Li
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Division of Bipolar Disorders Research, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267,Departments of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Du Lei
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Division of Bipolar Disorders Research, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267
| | - Maxwell J. Tallman
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Division of Bipolar Disorders Research, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267
| | - L. Rodrigo Patino
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Division of Bipolar Disorders Research, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267
| | - Qiyong Gong
- Departments of Radiology, Huaxi MR Research Center (HMRRC), West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China.
| | - Jeffrey R. Strawn
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Division of Bipolar Disorders Research, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267
| | - Melissa P. DelBello
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Division of Bipolar Disorders Research, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267
| | - Robert K. McNamara
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, Division of Bipolar Disorders Research, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45267
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Disentangling the Molecular Mechanisms of the Antidepressant Activity of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid: A Comprehensive Review of the Literature. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094393. [PMID: 33922396 PMCID: PMC8122828 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Major depressive disorders (MDDs) are often associated with a deficiency in long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs), as well as signs of low-grade inflammation. Epidemiological and dietary studies suggest that a high intake of fish, the major source of ω-3 PUFAs, is associated with lower rates of MDDs. Meta-analyses of randomized placebo-controlled ω-3 PUFAs intervention-trials suggest that primarily eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), but not docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), is responsible for the proposed antidepressant effect. In this review, we dissect the current biological knowledge on EPA and DHA and their bioactive lipid metabolites to search for a pharmacological explanation of this, to date, unexplained clinical observation. Through enzymatic conversion by cyclooxygenase (COX), lipoxygenase (ALOX), and cytochrome P-450 monooxygenase (CYP), EPA and DHA are metabolized to major anti-inflammatory and pro-resolving lipid mediators. In addition, both ω-3 PUFAs are precursors for endocannabinoids, with known effects on immunomodulation, neuroinflammation, food intake and mood. Finally, both ω-3 PUFAs are crucial for the structure and organization of membranes and lipid rafts. While most biological effects are shared by these two ω-3 PUFAs, some distinct features could be identified: (1) The preferential CYP monooxygenase pathway for EPA and EPA derived eicosanoids; (2) The high CB2 receptor affinities of EPA-derived EPEA and its epoxy-metabolite 17,18-EEQ-EA, while the DHA-derived endocannabinoids lack such receptor affinities; (3) The competition of EPA but not DHA with arachidonic acid (AA) for particular glycerophospholipids. EPA and AA are preferentially incorporated into phosphatidylinositols, while DHA is mainly incorporated into phosphatidyl-ethanolamine, -serine and -choline. We propose that these distinct features may explain the superior antidepressant activity of EPA rich ω-3 PUFAs and that these are potential novel targets for future antidepressant drugs.
Collapse
|
11
|
Importance of EPA and DHA Blood Levels in Brain Structure and Function. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13041074. [PMID: 33806218 PMCID: PMC8066148 DOI: 10.3390/nu13041074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain structure and function depend on a constant and sufficient supply with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) by blood. Blood levels of EPA and DHA reflect dietary intake and other variables and are preferably assessed as percentage in erythrocytes with a well-documented and standardized analytical method (HS-Omega-3 Index®). Every human being has an Omega-3 Index between 2 and 20%, with an optimum of 8–11%. Compared to an optimal Omega-3 Index, a lower Omega-3 Index was associated with increased risk for total mortality and ischemic stroke, reduced brain volume, impaired cognition, accelerated progression to dementia, psychiatric diseases, compromises of complex brain functions, and other brain issues in epidemiologic studies. Most intervention trials, and their meta-analyses considered EPA and DHA as drugs with good bioavailability, a design tending to produce meaningful results in populations characterized by low baseline blood levels (e.g., in major depression), but otherwise responsible for many neutral results and substantial confusion. When trial results were evaluated using blood levels of EPA and DHA measured, effects were larger than comparing EPA and DHA to placebo groups, and paralleled epidemiologic findings. This indicates future trial design, and suggests a targeted use EPA and DHA, based on the Omega-3 Index.
Collapse
|