Maternal Docosahexaenoic Acid Status during Pregnancy

Dietary components are essential for the structural and functional development of the brain. Among these, docosahexaenoic acid, 22:6n-3 (DHA), is supremely necessary for the structure and development of the growing fetal brain in utero.

DHA is the primary n-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid in the brain's gray matter, representing approximately 15% of all fatty acids in the human frontal cortex. In addition to its ability to control membrane fluidity, DHA also modulates neuronal density, neurotransmitter concentration, and synaptic activity, regulating the brain's neuroinflammatory state.

DHA affects neurogenesis, neurotransmitter function, plasticity, and synaptic transmission, as well as signal transduction in the brain. Human and animal studies suggest that adequate DHA levels in neuronal membranes are necessary for cortical astrocyte maturation, neurovascular coupling, glucose uptake, and metabolism. Furthermore, some DHA metabolites protect tissue from injury and stress in the brain.

Low DHA levels in the brain result in behavioral changes and are associated with learning difficulties and dementia. DHA is delivered to the fetal brain during the third trimester via the placenta and subsequently via breast milk. In humans, the placental supply of maternal DHA to the growing fetus is extremely important, as the developing brain obligatorily requires DHA during this period. Additionally, DHA is also involved in the initial process of placentation, which is essential for placental development.

Most evidence indicates that DHA accumulation is primarily influenced by dietary intake. Consuming two servings of DHA-rich fish, such as salmon, tuna, anchovy, or mackerel, per week, can adequately meet the minimum dietary requirements during pregnancy. Low intake of marine foods that provide DHA during pregnancy is critical for achieving sufficient levels of these fatty acids. The intake of trans fatty acids can also decrease the availability of n-3 LCPUFA for the mother and her child.

The facts described highlight the importance of maternal DHA intake for the structural and functional development of the brain.

Reference: Basak S, Mallick R, Duttaroy AK. Maternal Docosahexaenoic Acid Status during Pregnancy and Its Impact on Infant Neurodevelopment. Nutrients. 2020 Nov 25;12(12):3615. doi: 10.3390/nu12123615. PMID: 33255561; PMCID: PMC7759779.

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