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

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.