Docosahexaenoic acid

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), with the molecular formula C22H32O2, is a 6-fold unsaturated fatty acid, which belongs to the omega-3 fatty acids (see formula).

Docosahexaenoic acid is mainly produced by microalgae. It enters the human food chain via fish, fish meal and fish oil. Humans are able to synthesize docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) from alpha-linolenic acid. It has been shown that about 5-10% of the alpha-linolenic acid ingested is converted into EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and 2-5% into DHA.

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is a long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid. The solid acid is an integral component of neurogenic membrane phospholipids, which are essential for neurogenic functions. Several studies could establish a positive relationship between the DHA plasma seal and cognitive functions (Kuratko CN et al.2013, Yurko-Mauro K et al.2015). Furthermore, a relationship between blood pressure and systeolic blood pressure could be established in several RCTs. EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) +DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) reduce systolic blood pressure (Miller PE et al.2014).

In cosmetic formulations docosahexaenoic acid is used as antistatic agents, combability aids, film formers and viscosity regulators.

1. Kuratko CN et al(2013) The relationship of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) with learning and behavior in healthy children: a review. Nutrients 5:2777-2810 Miller PE et al (2014) Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid and blood pressure: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. At J Hypertens 27:885-896.
2. Salem N Jr et al,(2014) The benefit of docosahexaenoic acid for the adult brain in aging and dementia. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 92:15-22.
3. Yurko-Mauro K et al (2015) Docosahexaenoic acid and adult memory: a systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One. 10(3):e0120391.