1
|
Haake J, Meyerhoff N, Meller S, Twele F, Charalambous M, Wilke V, Volk H. Investigating Owner Use of Dietary Supplements in Dogs with Canine Cognitive Dysfunction. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:3056. [PMID: 37835662 PMCID: PMC10571926 DOI: 10.3390/ani13193056] [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: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) is becoming increasingly recognized in veterinary medicine, as dogs live longer and with CCD being highly prevalent among the elderly dog population. Various studies have shown that diet and dietary supplementation can positively influence the clinical signs of CCD, especially if given at an early stage. The aim of this study was to investigate owner use of dietary supplements (DSs) in dogs with age-related behavioral changes. An observational study based on an online questionnaire for owners of dogs with age-related behavioral changes was performed. Out of a total of 394 owners who completed the survey, after noticing age-related behavioral changes, over half of the dogs received DSs (54%), whereas only 8% reported changing their dog's base diet. The most used DS was fish oil (48%). The use of DSs should be discussed with and monitored by veterinary surgeons since many geriatric patients have multi-morbidities, may have specific nutritional requirements and receive multi-faceted medications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julia Haake
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (J.H.); (N.M.); (S.M.); (F.T.); (M.C.)
| | - Nina Meyerhoff
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (J.H.); (N.M.); (S.M.); (F.T.); (M.C.)
| | - Sebastian Meller
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (J.H.); (N.M.); (S.M.); (F.T.); (M.C.)
| | - Friederike Twele
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (J.H.); (N.M.); (S.M.); (F.T.); (M.C.)
| | - Marios Charalambous
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (J.H.); (N.M.); (S.M.); (F.T.); (M.C.)
| | - Volker Wilke
- Institute for Animal Nutrition, University of Veterinary Medicine, Foundation, 30173 Hannover, Germany;
| | - Holger Volk
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (J.H.); (N.M.); (S.M.); (F.T.); (M.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ajibawo-Aganbi U, Saleem S, Khan SZA, Veliginti S, Perez Bastidas MV, Lungba RM, Cancarevic I. Can Nutritional Adequacy Help Evade Neurodegeneration in Older Age? A Review. Cureus 2020; 12:e10921. [PMID: 33062461 PMCID: PMC7556684 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.10921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/06/2022] Open
Abstract
There is an increase in susceptibility to chronic and debilitating diseases with aging. The reason for the underlying neuronal degeneration and normal aging of the brain remains elusive. Different research studies have been conducted to discover how the brain degenerates and the importance of vitamins' role in the neurocognitive decline. Comprehensive literature research was conducted using all relevant data available from PubMed and Google scholar for this article. There has been evidence linking the consumption of essential nutrients to preventing the disease conditions that result in cognitive decline. This article provides the latest scientific advances specific to how dietary nutrients and non-nutrient may affect cognitive aging. An adequate supply of nutrients like vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B12, vitamin E, essential fatty acid (omega-3 fatty acid), and flavonoids play a vital role in ensuring healthy aging, enhancing memory, and strengthening neuroprotection. These nutrients help in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's. We recommend more research studies to determine the underlying mechanism of how these essential nutrients work in the prevention of cognitive decline. These studies will help provide the evidence needed for new dietary recommendations for combating these diseases that often affect aging patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Uvie Ajibawo-Aganbi
- Health Sciences, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Sania Saleem
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Seyad Zulficar Ali Khan
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA.,Family Medicine, Ministry of Health Oman, Salalah, OMN
| | - Swathi Veliginti
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Maria V Perez Bastidas
- Pulmonary Research Department, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Rayan M Lungba
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| | - Ivan Cancarevic
- Internal Medicine, California Institute of Behavioral Neurosciences & Psychology, Fairfield, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Phillips C. Lifestyle Modulators of Neuroplasticity: How Physical Activity, Mental Engagement, and Diet Promote Cognitive Health during Aging. Neural Plast 2017; 2017:3589271. [PMID: 28695017 PMCID: PMC5485368 DOI: 10.1155/2017/3589271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2017] [Revised: 05/01/2017] [Accepted: 05/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The number of the elderly across the globe will approximate 2.1 billion by 2050. Juxtaposed against this burgeoning segment of the population is evidence that nonpathological aging is associated with an increased risk for cognitive decline in a variety of domains, changes that can cause mild disability even before the onset of dementia. Given that pharmacological treatments that mitigate dementia are still outstanding, alternative therapeutic options are being investigated increasingly. The results from translational studies have shown that modifiable lifestyle factors-including physical activity, cognitive engagement, and diet-are a key strategy for maintaining brain health during aging. Indeed, a multiplicity of studies has demonstrated relationships between lifestyle factors, brain structure and function, and cognitive function in aging adults. For example, physical activity and diet modulate common neuroplasticity substrates (neurotrophic signaling, neurogenesis, inflammation, stress response, and antioxidant defense) in the brain whereas cognitive engagement enhances brain and cognitive reserve. The aims of this review are to evaluate the relationship between modifiable lifestyle factors, neuroplasticity, and optimal brain health during aging; to identify putative mechanisms that contribute positive brain aging; and to highlight future directions for scientists and clinicians. Undoubtedly, the translation of cutting-edge knowledge derived from the field of cognitive neuroscience will advance our understanding and enhance clinical treatment interventions as we endeavor to promote brain health during aging.
Collapse
|
4
|
Phillips MA, Childs CE, Calder PC, Rogers PJ. Lower omega-3 fatty acid intake and status are associated with poorer cognitive function in older age: A comparison of individuals with and without cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease. Nutr Neurosci 2016; 15:271-7. [PMID: 22824373 DOI: 10.1179/1476830512y.0000000026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Various strands of evidence suggest that low intake of omega-3 fatty acids increases risk of cognitive decline and dementia. The present study investigated differences in dietary intake and blood plasma content of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5n-3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22:6n-3) in individuals with cognitive impairment no dementia (CIND), individuals with Alzheimer's disease (AD), and healthy volunteers (HV). METHODS A total of 135 individuals aged between 55 and 91 years (19 AD, 55 CIND, and 61 HV) were assessed predominantly within a hospital setting. RESULTS Compared with age and sex-matched HV, individuals with AD or CIND performed poorly on a majority of tests of cognitive function. Impairment was greatest for delayed and verbal recognition memory. CIND individuals were less impaired than AD individuals. Omega-3 intake and the percentage of EPA and DHA in plasma phosphatidylcholine (PC) showed a similar pattern (AD < HV, with intermediate scores for CIND). Across the whole sample, and after controlling for age, years of education, level of socio-economic deprivation, and gender, omega-3 intake, plasma PC DHA, and plasma PC EPA were all significant positive predictors of memory functioning. DISCUSSION These results are consistent with the possibility that omega-3 fatty acid nutrition has an impact on cognitive decline, but could equally be explained by dietary changes that occurred after onset of cognitive decline. It is also possible that the results could be explained by unknown confounding factors.
Collapse
|
5
|
Hennebelle M, Harbeby E, Tremblay S, Chouinard-Watkins R, Pifferi F, Plourde M, Guesnet P, Cunnane SC. Challenges to determining whether DHA can protect against age-related cognitive decline. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.2217/clp.14.61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
|
6
|
Shirai N, Higuchi T, Suzuki H. Effects of Simultaneous Intake of Green Tea Extracts and Fish Oil on Cognitive Function and Plasma Lipids in the Elderly. J JPN SOC FOOD SCI 2015. [DOI: 10.3136/nskkk.62.88] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nobuya Shirai
- National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, National Food Research Institute
- National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, National Institute of Vegetable and Tea Science
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Chouinard-Watkins R, Plourde M. Fatty acid metabolism in carriers of apolipoprotein E epsilon 4 allele: is it contributing to higher risk of cognitive decline and coronary heart disease? Nutrients 2014; 6:4452-71. [PMID: 25333200 PMCID: PMC4210928 DOI: 10.3390/nu6104452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2014] [Revised: 09/02/2014] [Accepted: 09/24/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) is a protein playing a pivotal role in lipid homeostasis since it regulates cholesterol, triglyceride and phospholipid metabolism in the blood and the brain. APOE gene regulates the expression of this protein and has three different alleles: ε2, ε3 and ε4. Carrying an APOE4 allele is recognised as a genetic risk factor of late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (LOAD) and coronary heart disease (CHD). Consuming fatty fish, rich in long chain omega-3 fatty acids (LC omega-3), seems to be associated with risk reduction of developing LOAD and CHD but this link seems not to hold in APOE4 carriers, at least in LOAD. In CHD trials, APOE4 carriers supplemented with LC omega-3 were categorized as differential responders to the treatment with regards to CHD risk markers. This is potentially because fatty acid metabolism is disturbed in APOE4 carriers compared to the non-carriers. More specifically, homeostasis of LC omega-3 is disrupted in carriers of APOE4 allele and this is potentially because they β-oxidize more LC omega-3 than the non-carriers. Therefore, there is a potential shift in fatty acid selection for β-oxidation towards LC omega-3 which are usually highly preserved for incorporation into cell membranes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raphaël Chouinard-Watkins
- Research Center on Aging, Health and Social Services Centre-University Institute of Geriatrics of Sherbrooke, Department of medicine, Université de Sherbrooke, 1036 Belvédère Sud, Sherbrooke, J1H 4C4, Canada.
| | - Mélanie Plourde
- Research Center on Aging, Health and Social Services Centre-University Institute of Geriatrics of Sherbrooke, Department of medicine, Université de Sherbrooke, 1036 Belvédère Sud, Sherbrooke, J1H 4C4, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Keleshian VL, Kellom M, Kim HW, Taha AY, Cheon Y, Igarashi M, Rapoport SI, Rao JS. Neuropathological responses to chronic NMDA in rats are worsened by dietary n-3 PUFA deprivation but are not ameliorated by fish oil supplementation. PLoS One 2014; 9:e95318. [PMID: 24798187 PMCID: PMC4010416 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0095318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2013] [Accepted: 03/25/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Dietary long-chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplementation may be beneficial for chronic brain illnesses, but the issue is not agreed on. We examined effects of dietary n-3 PUFA deprivation or supplementation, compared with an n-3 PUFA adequate diet (containing alpha-linolenic acid [18:3 n-3] but not docosahexaenoic acid [DHA, 22:6n-3]), on brain markers of lipid metabolism and excitotoxicity, in rats treated chronically with NMDA or saline. METHODS Male rats after weaning were maintained on one of three diets for 15 weeks. After 12 weeks, each diet group was injected i.p. daily with saline (1 ml/kg) or a subconvulsive dose of NMDA (25 mg/kg) for 3 additional weeks. Then, brain fatty acid concentrations and various markers of excitotoxicity and fatty acid metabolism were measured. RESULTS Compared to the diet-adequate group, brain DHA concentration was reduced, while n-6 docosapentaenoic acid (DPA, 22:5n-6) concentration was increased in the n-3 deficient group; arachidonic acid (AA, 20:4n-6) concentration was unchanged. These concentrations were unaffected by fish oil supplementation. Chronic NMDA increased brain cPLA2 activity in each of the three groups, but n-3 PUFA deprivation or fish oil did not change cPLA2 activity or protein compared with the adequate group. sPLA2 expression was unchanged in the three conditions, whereas iPLA2 expression was reduced by deprivation but not changed by supplementation. BDNF protein was reduced by NMDA in N-3 PUFA deficient rats, but protein levels of IL-1β, NGF, and GFAP did not differ between groups. CONCLUSIONS N-3 PUFA deprivation significantly worsened several pathological NMDA-induced changes produced in diet adequate rats, whereas n-3 PUFA supplementation did not affect NMDA induced changes. Supplementation may not be critical for this measured neuropathology once the diet has an adequate n-3 PUFA content.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vasken L. Keleshian
- Virginia Commonwealth University, School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Matthew Kellom
- School of Earth and Space Exploration, Arizona State University, Phoenix, Arizona, United States of America
| | - Hyung-Wook Kim
- College of Life Sciences, Sejong University, Gunja-dong, Gwangjin-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ameer Y. Taha
- Brain Physiology and Metabolism Section, Laboratory of Neurosciences, National Institute on Aging, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Yewon Cheon
- Brain Physiology and Metabolism Section, Laboratory of Neurosciences, National Institute on Aging, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Miki Igarashi
- Department of Anatomy & Neurobiology, School of Medicine, University of California Irvine, Irvine, California, United States of America
| | - Stanley I. Rapoport
- Brain Physiology and Metabolism Section, Laboratory of Neurosciences, National Institute on Aging, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Jagadeesh S. Rao
- Brain Physiology and Metabolism Section, Laboratory of Neurosciences, National Institute on Aging, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Effects of omega-3 fatty acids on cognitive performance: a meta-analysis. Neurobiol Aging 2012; 33:1482.e17-29. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurobiolaging.2011.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 164] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2011] [Revised: 10/06/2011] [Accepted: 12/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
10
|
Astarita G, Piomelli D. Towards a whole-body systems [multi-organ] lipidomics in Alzheimer's disease. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2011; 85:197-203. [PMID: 21543199 PMCID: PMC3161165 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2011.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Preclinical and clinical evidence suggests that docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid derived from diet or synthesized in the liver, decreases the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD). DHA levels are reduced in the brain of subjects with AD, but it is still unclear whether human dementias are associated with dysregulations of DHA metabolism. A systems biological view of omega-3 fatty acid metabolism offered unexpected insights on the regulation of DHA homeostasis in AD [1]. Results of multi-organ lipidomic analyses were integrated with clinical and gene-expression data sets to develop testable hypotheses on the functional significance of lipid abnormalities observed and on their possible mechanistic bases. One surprising outcome of this integrative approach was the discovery that the liver of AD patients has a limited capacity to convert shorter chain omega-3 fatty acids into DHA due to a deficit in the peroxisomal d-bifunctional protein. This deficit may contribute to the decrease in brain DHA levels and contribute to cognitive impairment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Astarita
- Department of Pharmacology, 3101 Gillespie NRF, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-4625, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
What Is the Link between Docosahexaenoic Acid, Cognitive Impairment, and Alzheimer’s Disease in the Elderly? Front Neurosci 2010. [DOI: 10.1201/9781420067767-c19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] Open
|
12
|
Jiang LH, Shi Y, Wang LS, Yang ZR. The influence of orally administered docosahexaenoic acid on cognitive ability in aged mice. J Nutr Biochem 2009; 20:735-41. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2008.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2007] [Revised: 05/19/2008] [Accepted: 07/07/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
|
13
|
Cunnane SC, Plourde M, Pifferi F, Bégin M, Féart C, Barberger-Gateau P. Fish, docosahexaenoic acid and Alzheimer's disease. Prog Lipid Res 2009; 48:239-56. [PMID: 19362576 DOI: 10.1016/j.plipres.2009.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 203] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2009] [Revised: 03/19/2009] [Accepted: 04/01/2009] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Cognitive decline in the elderly, particularly Alzheimer's disease (AD), is a major socio-economic and healthcare concern. We review here the literature on one specific aspect of diet affecting AD, that of the omega3 fatty acids, particularly the brain's principle omega3 fatty acid - docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). DHA has deservedly received wide attention as a nutrient supporting both optimal brain development and for cardiovascular health. Our aim here is to critically assess the quality of the present literature as well as the potential of omega3 fatty acids to treat or delay the onset of AD. We start with a brief description of cognitive decline in the elderly, followed by an overview of well recognized biological functions of DHA. We then turn to epidemiological studies, which are largely supportive of protective effects of fish and DHA against risk of AD. However, biological studies, including blood and brain DHA analyses need careful interpretation and further investigation, without which the success of clinical trials with DHA may continue to struggle. We draw attention to some of the methodological issues that need resolution as well as an emerging mechanism that may explain how DHA could be linked to protecting brain function in the elderly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S C Cunnane
- Department of Medicine and Research Center on Aging, CSSS-IUGS, Université de Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
DeMar JC, DiMartino C, Baca AW, Lefkowitz W, Salem N. Effect of dietary docosahexaenoic acid on biosynthesis of docosahexaenoic acid from alpha-linolenic acid in young rats. J Lipid Res 2008; 49:1963-80. [PMID: 18469302 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.m800117-jlr200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a crucial nervous system n-3 PUFA, may be obtained in the diet or synthesized in vivo from dietary alpha-linolenic acid (LNA). We addressed whether DHA synthesis is regulated by the availability of dietary DHA in artificially reared rat pups, during p8 to p28 development. Over 20 days, one group of rat pups was continuously fed deuterium-labeled LNA (d5-LNA) and no other n-3 PUFA (d5-LNA diet), and a second group of rat pups was fed a d5-LNA diet with unlabeled DHA (d5-LNA + DHA diet). The rat pups were then euthanized, and the total amount of deuterium-labeled docosahexaenoic acid (d5-DHA) (synthesized DHA) as well as other n-3 fatty acids present in various body tissues, was quantified. In the d5-LNA + DHA group, the presence of dietary DHA led to a marked decrease (3- to 5-fold) in the total amount of d5-DHA that accumulated in all tissues that we examined, except in adipose. Overall, DHA accretion from d5-DHA was generally diminished by availability of dietary preformed DHA, inasmuch as this was found to be the predominant source of tissue DHA. When preformed DHA was unavailable, d5-DHA and unlabeled DHA were preferentially accreted in some tissues along with a net loss of unlabeled DHA from other organs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James C DeMar
- Section of Nutritional Neurosciences, Laboratory of Membrane Biochemistry and Biophysics, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Plourde M, Fortier M, Vandal M, Tremblay-Mercier J, Freemantle E, Bégin M, Pifferi F, Cunnane SC. Unresolved issues in the link between docosahexaenoic acid and Alzheimer's disease. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2007; 77:301-8. [PMID: 18036804 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2007.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Lower consumption of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is commonly but not always associated with higher risk of cognitive decline and diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). We review here the available data relating DHA to AD, with emphasis on DHA content of plasma and brain. Our assessment of this literature is that low DHA is not consistently observed in AD plasma or brain. However, in dietary and population studies, low DHA intake is usually associated with low plasma DHA. Therefore, at present, there is no clear explanation of why the usual low DHA intake-low plasma DHA relationship appears not to exist in AD. Adding to the confusion, preliminary and inconclusive reports tentatively suggest that dietary DHA could potentially reduce cognitive deterioration in AD. These inconsistencies between dietary DHA, plasma/tissue DHA, and possible DHA efficacy in AD may be more methodological than biological, and may arise in part because only one study to date has reported both DHA intake and plasma DHA values in the same AD patients. Studies reporting DHA intake and plasma levels while also undertaking a DHA intervention in AD would presumably help resolve these issues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Plourde
- Research Center on Aging, 1036 Belvedere South, Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Igarashi M, DeMar JC, Ma K, Chang L, Bell JM, Rapoport SI. Docosahexaenoic acid synthesis from α-linolenic acid by rat brain is unaffected by dietary n-3 PUFA deprivation. J Lipid Res 2007; 48:1150-8. [PMID: 17277380 DOI: 10.1194/jlr.m600549-jlr200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Rates of conversion of alpha-linolenic acid (alpha-LNA, 18:3n-3) to docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3) by the mammalian brain and the brain's ability to upregulate these rates during dietary deprivation of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are unknown. To answer these questions, we measured conversion coefficients and rates in post-weaning rats fed an n-3 PUFA deficient (0.2% alpha-LNA of total fatty acids, no DHA) or adequate (4.6% alpha-LNA, no DHA) diet for 15 weeks. Unanesthetized rats in each group were infused intravenously with [1-(14)C]alpha-LNA, and their arterial plasma and microwaved brains collected at 5 minutes were analyzed. The deficient compared with adequate diet reduced brain DHA by 37% and increased brain arachidonic (20:4n-6) and docosapentaenoic (22:5n-6) acids. Only 1% of plasma [1-(14)C]alpha-LNA entering brain was converted to DHA with the adequate diet, and conversion coefficients of alpha-LNA to DHA were unchanged by the deficient diet. In summary, the brain's ability to synthesize DHA from alpha-LNA is very low and is not altered by n-3 PUFA deprivation. Because the liver's reported ability is much higher, and can be upregulated by the deficient diet, DHA converted by the liver from circulating alphaLNA is the source of the brain's DHA when DHA is not in the diet.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miki Igarashi
- Brain Physiology and Metabolism Section, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Effect of docosahexaenoic acid on brain 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase activity in male ICR mice. J Nutr Biochem 2006; 18:488-94. [PMID: 17142030 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2006.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2006] [Revised: 09/20/2006] [Accepted: 10/02/2006] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the influence of docosahexaenoic acid ethyl ester (DHA-EE) on 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase activity in the brains of adult and aged mice. Male mice (Crlj:CD-1) were fed diets containing 3% lard plus 2% linoleic acid ethyl ester (LA-EE), or 2% DHA-EE, for 3 months. The brain HMG-CoA reductase activity of 8-month-old (adult) mice was not significantly influenced by dietary intake of DHA-EE. However, in 18-month-old (aged) mice, its activity was enhanced with dietary intake of DHA-EE. Brain HMG-CoA reductase activity and brain cholesterol content significantly increased with age. Hepatic HMG-CoA reductase activity and the cholesterol content of both adult and aged mice were reduced in DHA-EE diet groups, compared with LA-EE diet groups. The DHA percentages of brain and liver microsomal fractions increased with the intake of DHA-EE in adult and aged mice. These results suggest that DHA may enhance brain HMG-CoA reductase activity in aged mice.
Collapse
|
18
|
Abstract
Oxidative stress is the result of an imbalance of antioxidants and pro-oxidants. Since toxic free radicals are the result of normal metabolism, their destruction is imperative. Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide. Opacity of the lens is a direct result of oxidative stress. Cataracts occur primarily due to age, but also are common in diabetes where superoxide in the mitochondria is elevated as a result of hyperglycemia. This review will investigate the risk factors of cataract including diet (vitamins, fat and alcohol) as well as UV light and diabetes. The pathophysiology of lens opacification will be discussed and related to the biochemistry, especially during the aging process and in diabetes. Animal and human supplemental antioxidant studies will be reviewed and the mechanisms discussed for cataract prevention and treatment. New genetic engineering approaches to overexpress antioxidant enzymes have given intriguing results and show promise. Lastly, a new approach to target mitochondrial superoxide with antioxidant molecules will be outlined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joe A Vinson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Scranton, Linden and Monroe Streets, Scranton, PA 18510, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Ren H, Magulike N, Ghebremeskel K, Crawford M. Primary open-angle glaucoma patients have reduced levels of blood docosahexaenoic and eicosapentaenoic acids. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2006; 74:157-63. [PMID: 16410047 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2005.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2005] [Revised: 11/04/2005] [Accepted: 11/24/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The aetiology of primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), which is the commonest cause of non-remediable blindness and visual impairment, is not well understood. Nevertheless, increased intraocular pressure, and vascular factors such as ocular blood flow deficits are thought to be risk factors. There is evidence of decreased optic nerve blood velocity and increased red blood cell aggregability in POAG. These factors are influenced by fatty acids. We have investigated if glaucoma patients have abnormal blood fatty acid composition. Patients with POAG (n=10) and their healthy siblings (n=8) were enrolled. Compared with their healthy siblings, the glaucoma patients had reduced eicosapentaenoic (EPA, P<0.01), and docosahexaenoic (DHA, P<0.05) fatty acids and total omega3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) (P<0.05) in red cell choline phosphoglycerides (CPG); decreased EPA (P<0.05) in ethanolamine phosphoglycerides (EPG); lower EPA (P<0.05) and total omega3 LCPUFA (P<0.05) in serine phosphoglycerides (SPG). Similarly, they had reduced EPA, DHA and total omega3 LCPUFA in plasma CPG (P<0.005) and triglycerides (P<0.05). These findings may be significant, since EPA and DHA could modulate impaired systemic microcirculation and ocular blood flow and optic neuropathy, which are the main physiological changes associated with glaucoma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hongmei Ren
- Institute of Brain Chemistry and Human Nutrition, London Metropolitan University, North Campus, 166-220 Holloway Road, London N7 8DB, UK, and Department of Ophthalmology, University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Hashimoto M, Tanabe Y, Fujii Y, Kikuta T, Shibata H, Shido O. Chronic administration of docosahexaenoic acid ameliorates the impairment of spatial cognition learning ability in amyloid beta-infused rats. J Nutr 2005; 135:549-55. [PMID: 15735092 DOI: 10.1093/jn/135.3.549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 219] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated whether administration of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a major (n-3) fatty acid of the brain, ameliorates the impairment of learning ability in an animal model of Alzheimer's disease (AD), rats infused with amyloid-beta (Abeta) peptide (1-40) into the cerebral ventricle. Inbred 3rd generation male rats (20 wk old) fed a fish oil-deficient diet were randomly divided into 4 groups: a vehicle group, an Abeta peptide-infused group (Abeta group), a DHA group, and an Abeta + DHA group. A mini-osmotic pump filled with Abeta peptide or vehicle was implanted in the rats, and they were tested for learning ability-related reference and working memory in an 8-arm radial maze. The rats were then orally fed DHA dissolved in 5% gum Arabic solution at 300 mg/(kg . d) (DHA and Abeta + DHA groups) or vehicle alone (vehicle and Abeta groups) and tested again for learning ability. DHA administered for 12 wk significantly reduced the increase in the number of reference and working memory errors in the Abeta-infused rats, and increased both the cortico-hippocampal level of DHA and the molar ratio of DHA/arachidonic acid, suggesting an amelioration of the impaired spatial cognition learning ability. Furthermore, DHA suppressed the increases in the levels of lipid peroxide and reactive oxygen species in the cerebral cortex and the hippocampus of Abeta-infused rats, suggesting that DHA increases antioxidative defenses. DHA is thus a possible therapeutic agent for ameliorating learning deficiencies due to Alzheimer's disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michio Hashimoto
- Department of Environmental Physiology, Shimane University Faculty of Medicine, Izumo 693-8501, Japan.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
DeMar JC, Ma K, Bell JM, Rapoport SI. Half-lives of docosahexaenoic acid in rat brain phospholipids are prolonged by 15 weeks of nutritional deprivation of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. J Neurochem 2004; 91:1125-37. [PMID: 15569256 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-4159.2004.02789.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 153] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Male rat pups (21 days old) were placed on a diet deficient in n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) or on an n-3 PUFA adequate diet containing alpha-linolenic acid (alpha-LNA; 18 : 3n-3). After 15 weeks on a diet, [4,5-3H]docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; 22 : 6n-3) was injected into the right lateral cerebral ventricle, and the rats were killed at fixed times over a period of 60 days. Compared with the adequate diet, 15 weeks of n-3 PUFA deprivation reduced plasma DHA by 89% and brain DHA by 37%; these DHA concentrations did not change thereafter. In the n-3 PUFA adequate rats, DHA loss half-lives, calculated by plotting log10 (DHA radioactivity) against time after tracer injection, equaled 33 days in total brain phospholipid, 23 days in phosphatidylcholine, 32 days in phosphatidylethanolamine, 24 days in phosphatidylinositol and 58 days in phosphatidylserine; all had a decay slope significantly greater than 0 (p < 0.05). In the n-3 PUFA deprived rats, these half-lives were prolonged twofold or greater, and calculated rates of DHA loss from brain, Jout, were reduced. Mechanisms must exist in the adult rat brain to minimize DHA metabolic loss, and to do so even more effectively in the face of reduced n-3 PUFA availability for only 15 weeks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James C DeMar
- Brain Physiology and Metabolism Section, National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-1582, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Sayanova OV, Napier JA. Eicosapentaenoic acid: biosynthetic routes and the potential for synthesis in transgenic plants. PHYTOCHEMISTRY 2004; 65:147-58. [PMID: 14732274 DOI: 10.1016/j.phytochem.2003.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids are now known to play important roles in human health. In particular, eicosapentaenoic acid (20:5Delta(5,8,11,14,17); n-3: EPA) is implicated as a protective agent in a range of pathologies such as cardiovascular disease and Metabolic Syndrome (Syndrome X). Eicosapentaenoic acid is currently sourced from fish oils, the presence of this fatty acid being due to the dietary piscine consumption of EPA-synthesising micro-algae. The biosynthetic pathway of EPA has been elucidated, and contains several alternative metabolic routes. Progress in using "reverse engineering" to transgenically mobilize the trait(s) for EPA are considered. In particular, the prospect of producing this important polyunsaturated fatty acid in transgenic oilseeds is highlighted, as is the urgent need for a sustainable replacement for diminishing fish stocks.
Collapse
|