Enhanced neuroprotective effect of DHA and EPA-enriched phospholipids against 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) induced oxidative stress in mice brain

Abstract

The n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are essential for brain and nervous system growth. The phospholipid forms of docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid (DHA/EPA-PL) produce remarkable benefits regarding brain development and neurological function. This study investigated the effects of different n-3 PUFA formulations on brain oxidative injury induced by 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). Administration of MPTP (30 mg/kg, i.p., 7 days) induced movement disorder and altered the oxidant–antioxidant status of the brain by reducing intracellular GSH levels and antioxidant enzyme activities, and increasing intracellular lipid peroxidation. In comparison to fish oil (DHA/EPA-TG) and algae oil (DHA-TG), pretreatment with DHA/EPA-PL was more effective in preventing nerve oxidative stress and attenuating motor abnormalities. The anti-apoptosis effect of DHA/EPA-PL was superior to DHA-TG. Additionally, DHA/EPA-PL distinctly reduced the phosphorylation of p38 and Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK). The results indicate that DHA/EPA-PL could offer an efficient strategy to explore novel functional food for neuroprotection.

Keywords

• DHA and EPA-enriched phospholipids
• MPTP
• Brain oxidative stress
• Motor function test