Title:Functional and Structural Benefits Induced by Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids During Aging
VOLUME: 15 ISSUE: 4
Author(s):Debora Cutuli*
Affiliation:Via del Fosso di Fiorano 64, 00143, Rome
Keywords:Aging, cognitive decline, morphometry, neuroinflammation, neuroplasticity, omega 3 fatty acids.
Abstract:Background: Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) are structural components
of the brain and are indispensable for neuronal membrane synthesis. Along with decline in cognition,
decreased synaptic density and neuronal loss, normal aging is accompanied by a reduction in n-3
PUFA concentration in the brain in both humans and rodents. Recently, many clinical and experimental
studies have demonstrated the importance of n-3 PUFA in counteracting neurodegeneration and agerelated
dysfunctions.
Methods: This review will focus on the neuroprotective effects of n-3 PUFA on cognitive
impairment, neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration during normal aging. Multiple pathways of
n-3 PUFA preventive action will be examined.
Results: Namely, n-3 PUFA have been shown to increase the levels of several signaling factors
involved in synaptic plasticity, thus leading to the increase of dendritic spines and synapses as well as
the enhancement of hippocampal neurogenesis even at old age. In elderly subjects n-3 PUFA exert
anti-inflammatory effects associated with improved cognitive functions. Interestingly, growing evidence
highlights n-3 PUFA efficacy in preventing the loss of both gray and white matter volume and integrity.
Conclusion: This review shows that n-3 PUFA are essential for a successful aging and appear as
ideal cognitive enhancers to be implemented in nutritional interventions for the promotion of healthy
aging.
