Abstract
RATIONALE: Omega-3 fatty acids are known to play a role in nervous system
activity, cognitive development, memory-related learning, neuroplasticity of
nerve membranes, synaptogenesis and synaptic transmission. The brain is
considered abnormally sensitive to oxidative damage, and aging is considered one
of the most significant risk factors for degenerative neurological disorders.
Recently, clinical trials of several neurodegenerative diseases have
increasingly targeted the evaluation of the effectiveness of various
antioxidants. OBJECTIVES: The effects of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants on
the anatomic and functional central nervous system development and their
possible therapeutical use in some neurological and psychiatric pathologies are
evaluated. RESULTS: A number of critical trials have confirmed the benefits of
dietary supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids not only in several psychiatric
conditions, but also in inflammatory and autoimmune and neurodegenerative
diseases. Many evidences indicate that antioxidants are also essential in
maintaining a correct neurophysiology. CONCLUSIONS: Omega-3 fatty acids could be
useful in the prevention of different pathologies, such as cardiovascular,
psychiatric, neurological, dermatological and rheumatological disorders. A
number of studies suggest that antioxidants can prevent the oxidation of various
macromolecules such as DNA, proteins, and lipids. The ideal use of antioxidants
should be a prophylactic and continue treatment before aging.
Lingua originale | English |
---|---|
pagine (da-a) | 12-26 |
Numero di pagine | 15 |
Rivista | PROGRESS IN NEURO-PSYCHOPHARMACOLOGY & BIOLOGICAL PSYCHIATRY |
Stato di pubblicazione | Pubblicato - 2007 |
Keywords
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- antioxidants
- neurological diseases
- psychiatric diseases