Neuroprotection by docosahexaenoic acid in brain injury

Abstract

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6 n-3) is an omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid highly enriched in the brain and is recognized as an essential nutrient for proper development of brain function. Common brain injuries often cause lifelong neurological and cognitive impairments, especially in learning and memory. Optimizing the nutritional DHA status in neural tissues may allow significantly improved resilience for the central nervous system to injury and optimized recovery. This article discusses neuroprotective effects of DHA, which are potentially important for improving injury outcome, thus reducing the risk of lifelong neurological impairment associated with brain injury.