Lipids in the Treatment of Neurodegenerative Diseases

Lipids and Health
Klaus W. Lange

Klaus W. Lange

Institute of Psychology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany

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First published: 17 February 2020
Citations: 2

Abstract

The brain contains high concentrations of lipids, and lipid homoeostasis is fundamental to the maintenance of brain health. Alterations of the main lipid classes have been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). Dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), especially docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), can have favorable effects on brain structure and cognitive functions and might be a useful strategy in the prevention of AD. However, further randomized controlled trials are required before omega-3 PUFAs can be recommended as a preventive measure for mild cognitive impairment and dementia. Omega-3 PUFAs may also have therapeutic potential in Parkinson's and Huntington's diseases. PUFAs can exert anti-inflammatory effects that may be relevant to multiple sclerosis (MS). However, controlled studies regarding the potential benefits of PUFA supplementation in MS have shown inconclusive results. To determine whether omega-3 PUFAs can provide neuroprotective effects in neurodegenerative diseases, biological markers for an early identification of individuals at risk need to be found. Furthermore, the demonstration of neuroprotective efficacy in clinical studies is a significant challenge.

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