DHA

Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) – Omega-3 Long-Chain PUFA for Neurodevelopment, Inflammation Control, and Cellular Integrity

Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA; C22:6 n-3) is a long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) that plays a pivotal role in maintaining neurological, cardiovascular, and cellular health. It is an essential structural component of phospholipid membranes, particularly abundant in the brain, retina, and spermatozoa, accounting for over 90% of the omega-3 content in the brain and up to 60% in the retina.

Biochemically, DHA influences membrane fluidity, receptor function, and cell signaling, directly modulating neuronal transmission and synaptic plasticity. It is crucial for neurogenesis, myelination, and visual acuity, especially during fetal and infant development. DHA also serves as a precursor for docosanoids, including resolvins, neuroprotectins, and maresins—specialized pro-resolving lipid mediators that actively terminate inflammation and promote tissue repair.

In cardiovascular systems, DHA contributes to lipid profile optimization, endothelial function, and arrhythmia prevention by regulating ion channels, reducing triglyceride levels, and exerting anti-thrombotic effects.

Derived from marine sources (e.g., fish oil, algal oil), DHA is incorporated into nutraceuticals, infant formulas, pharmaceuticals, and functional foods, with formulations often standardized to 30–70% DHA content.