Essential fatty acids in early life: structural and functional role

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Nutritional Science
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• Essential fatty acids (EFA) are vital for cell membrane synthesis, with neural tissues being rich in long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA).
• n-3 and n-6 EFAs play critical roles in human development, especially in early life, impacting neural and sensory system maturation.
• While infants can synthesize some LCPUFA, synthesis rates are very low, particularly in preterm infants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of LCPUFA in infant development and sensory system maturation.
• To evaluate the efficacy of LCPUFA supplementation in preterm infant formulas.
• To understand the molecular mechanisms of LCPUFA in regulating gene expression.

Main Methods:

• Stable-isotope-labeled tracers were used to assess fatty acid synthesis in infants.
• Studies examined the effects of LCPUFA on gene expression via nuclear transcription factors like PPAR.
• Clinical trials involved supplementing infant formulas with LCPUFA sources (marine or single-cell oils).

Main Results:

• Preterm infants show very low endogenous synthesis of arachidonic acid (AA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
• LCPUFA regulate gene expression at the transcriptional level through nuclear receptors.
• Supplementation with LCPUFA in formula-fed preterm infants improved visual function to levels comparable to breastfed infants.

Conclusions:

• LCPUFA are essential for optimal neural and sensory development in infants.
• Supplementation of preterm infant formulas with LCPUFA is supported by clinical evidence.
• Formula composition should aim to mimic human milk to ensure adequate LCPUFA levels for infant development.