Scientists from Columbia University (USA), as part of a research team, discovered that long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids are effective in combating depression. Results of the study: shared in the field of Molecular Psychiatry.
Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) are omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. They are key to healthy brain function. Lack of LCPUFA in the body is associated with neurological disorders and deviant behavior. They are found in fish, olive oil and nuts.
Scientists tried to find out whether this type of acid could improve the mental state of people with depression. To do this, they conducted a meta-analysis (combining the results) of previous studies on this topic. Researchers were interested in studying the mechanisms of action of LCPUFAs that may affect brain function.
LCPUFA supplementation was found to suppress microglia (a type of immune cell in the nervous system) activity and subsequent neuroinflammation. Chronic inflammation in the brain has been linked to depressive symptoms. Additionally, animal experiments have shown that such acid injections help reduce oxidative stress in certain areas of the brain.
LCPUFAs regulate the size of lipid rafts in plasma membranes. This means that such acids are able to reverse pathological changes (caused by depression) in special areas of the plasma membrane of cells, consisting of proteins and lipids. More research is needed to better understand the mechanisms underlying this therapeutic effect.
Previous scientists determinedexactly where in the brain unpleasant intrusive thoughts arise.