Fatty acid methyl esters as a potential therapy against cerebral ischemia

Saturated fatty acids have been traditionally thought to be detrimental in circulation. However, we describe the beneficial effects of palmitic and stearic acid methyl esters as it relates to neuroprotection and cerebral vasodilatory properties in global and focal cerebral ischemia. The methyl esterification of fatty acids is not prominent in nature. However, it seems to have biological activity related to neuroprotection/vasodilation. We will discuss the etiology of cerebral ischemia such as stroke and cardiac arrest in terms of current and future treatment modalitiesas it relates to fatty acid-based therapies. This review is based on the meeting presentation at the “The Journées Chevreul, Lipids & Brain III 2015” in Paris on 16–18 March, 2015