OMEGA-3 (DHA) DOWNREGULATES INFLAMMATORY STATE IN MICROGLIAL CELL LINE

Omega-3 (ω-3) is a family of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) mostly known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. ω-3 PUFAs are present in cell membranes, having a structural role by composing phospholipids, and can also be used to synthesize lipid mediators that act on cell signaling in diverse situations such as inflammation. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is the main ω-3 PUFA in the brain, making it a key component of cellular response in this tissue. In the Central Nervous System, microglia respond when encountering stimuli such as bacteria lipopolysaccharide (LPS). This can be a double-edged sword because microglia-mediated inflammation is necessary for brain homeostasis. However, exacerbating this process can be neurodegenerative. Thus, DHA`s beneficial effects could regulate microglia`s immune response.