Docosahexaenoic acid: membrane modification and neurotrophic mechanisms

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22:6n-3) is highly enriched in the brain mainly in membrane phospholipids. Maintenance of a high DHA concentration in brain is essential for proper neuronal function, suggesting a unique requirement of this fatty acid for an optimal membrane structure and function in the nervous system. This article discusses mechanisms supporting neurotrophic function of DHA, particularly the role of DHA in membrane modification and related cell signaling leading to neuronal survival and differentiation