Application Notes:
This product is an ideal standard for analysis and for use in biological systems. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is a major
component of fish oils, animal phospholipids, and algae. Supplements of this acid are widely popular due to possible
improvements in cognitive and behavioral functions, sight defects, inflammation disorders, and cancer.1 It is essential to
many neurological functions and is present in very high levels in the mammalian brain, brain synaptosomal plasma
membranes and synaptic vesicles. It is essential for the early neural development of mammals2 and it inhibits the rostaglandin
synthase-cyclooxygenase enzymes. DHA is the precursor of the docosanoids which have potent anti-inflammatory and
immuno-regulatory actions. In the retina it is a major structural component of the photoreceptor outer segment membranes.
DHA can depress prostaglandin E2 production and, along with EPA, has been shown to cause a significant growth inhibition
of human lung carcinoma.3
References:
1. F. Muskiet et al. “Is Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) Essential? Lessons from DHA Status Regulation, Our Ancient Diet, Epidemiology and Randomized
Controlled Trials” The Journal of Nutrition, Vol. 134 pp. 183-186, 2004
2. N. Salem et al. “Mechanisms of Actions of Docosahexaenoic Acid in the Nervous System” Lipids, Vol. 36:9 pp. 945-959, 2001
3. M. de Brava et al. “Effects of an Eicosapentaenoic and Docosahexaenoic Acid Concentrate on a Human Lung Carcinoma Grown in Nude Mice” Lipids,
Vol. 26:11 pp. 866-870, 1991