Title: "What are the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3s) for children- 12 months and older?"
Author: Professor Andrew Sinclair
Author: Professor Andrew Sinclair
Article Date: August 2007
DHA is a long chain
omega-3 fatty acid with 22 carbon atoms and 6 cis double bonds that is found in
high proportions in membrane in the retina. The most DHA in membrane lipids is
in the disk membranes of the rod outer segments of photoreceptor cells in the
retina. The photoreceptor cell is a specialized type of neuron in the retina
that converts photons (particles of light) into electrical signals. The outer
segments of photoreceptor cells are specialized membranes that initiate the
process of vision so DHA acts as a molecular spring when the light activates
rhodopsin (a purple-red light sensitive pigment in the retina). The mechanism
of DHA's benefits to brain and retinal enhancement is that DHA is formed from
internally originated mediators that are also known as
"docosatrienes". These docosatrienes can be found in blood,
leukocytes (white blood cells), murine brain, and glial cells (which support
and protect neurons). All of these parts of the body have different impacts on
the eye, so as DHA is an essential fatty acid, our body craves these omega-3s,
which can enhance retinal development. As I researched leukocytes, I came
across another fascinating article which explained that the small blurry dots
that can appear when a person looks at the sun are actually white blood cells
that you are seeing in your own eye- these cells are also known as leukocytes!
Thank you for your parenthetical explanations of terms. That helps with understanding some of the terminology you tossed out.
ReplyDeleteSuggestions: Find a diagram of the photoreceptor cells to show how DHA is key to the retinal function. Maybe something that show step wise what happens after a photon signals the photoreceptor cell. Can you elaborate on docosatrienes?