Opposite changes in predominantly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in cerebrospinal fluid and red blood cells from never-medicated first-episode psychotic patients

Variable levels of essential polyunsaturated fatty acids (EPUFAs) reported in schizophrenia are likely due to differences in age, sex, ethnicity, diet, life style and treatments. The present study examined the EPUFAs levels in plasma, RBC and CSF in never-medicated first-episode psychotic patients and normal controls matched for ethnicity, diet and life style. The plasma EPUFAs levels were similar in both groups. Among the EPUFAs enriched in the brain, predominantly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) levels were lower in RBC (p = < 0.01) whereas higher in CSF (p = < 0.01) in male > female patients. This altered DHA metabolism may provide clues for neuropathology and treatment of schizophrenia.