n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation enhances hippocampal functionality in aged mice

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Aging Research
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) are crucial for neuronal membrane function and have demonstrated regulatory roles in synaptic plasticity, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and neuroprotection.
• Previous studies suggest n-3 PUFA possess neuroprotective properties in aging, with lower levels correlating to hippocampal deficits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the neuroprotective effects of n-3 PUFA in aging by examining cognition, hippocampal neurogenesis, volume, neurodegeneration, and metabolic factors.
• To associate cognitive performance with structural and metabolic changes in the hippocampus following n-3 PUFA supplementation.

Main Methods:

• Nineteen-month-old mice were supplemented with an n-3 PUFA mixture, olive oil, or no supplement for 8 weeks.
• Hippocampal-dependent memory functions were assessed behaviorally, followed by morphological and metabolic analyses of the hippocampus.

Main Results:

• n-3 PUFA supplemented aged mice showed enhanced object recognition, spatial, and aversive memory retention compared to controls, without altered anxiety levels.
• Supplementation led to increased hippocampal neurogenesis, dendritic arborization, volume, neuronal density, and microglial number.
• Apoptosis, astrocytosis, and lipofuscin accumulation in the hippocampus were reduced in the n-3 PUFA group.
• Elevated blood Acetyl-L-Carnitine and brain n-3 PUFA concentrations indicated effective neuroprotection.

Conclusions:

• n-3 PUFA supplementation demonstrates significant neuroprotective effects in aging mice, improving cognitive function and hippocampal health.
• These findings support n-3 PUFA as a potential dietary strategy for promoting brain health and preventing cognitive decline associated with aging.