Maternal linoleic acid-rich diet ameliorates bilirubin neurotoxicity in offspring mice

Hyperbilirubinaemia is a prevalent condition during the neonatal period, and if not promptly and effectively managed, it can lead to severe bilirubin-induced neurotoxicity. Sunflower seeds are a nutrient-rich food source, particularly abundant in linoleic acid. Here, we provide compelling evidence that lactating maternal mice fed a sunflower seed diet experience enhanced neurological outcomes and increased survival rates in hyperbilirubinemic offspring. We assessed histomorphological indices, including cerebellar Nissl staining, and Calbindin staining, and hippocampal hematoxylin and eosin staining. Furthermore, we observed the transmission of linoleic acid, enriched in sunflower seeds, to offspring through lactation. The oral administration of linoleic acid-rich sunflower seed oil by lactating mothers significantly prolonged the survival time of hyperbilirubinemic offspring mice. Mechanistically, linoleic acid counteracts the bilirubin-induced accumulation of ubiquitinated proteins and neuronal cell death by activating autophagy. Collectively, these findings elucidate the novel role of a maternal linoleic acid-supplemented diet in promoting child health.