Maternal polymorphisms in the FADS1 and FADS2 genes modify the association between PUFA ingestion and plasma concentrations of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids

Western diet changes in the last few decades have culminated in increased of omega-6 (n-6) and reduction of omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids intake, which are characterized by an essentially pro-inflammatory activity [1,2]. This dietary pattern is particularly detrimental in pregnancy when large amounts of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, 22: 6, n-3), the major long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC-PUFA) n-3, is deposited in fetal retina and tissues, influencing cognitive development and visual acuity in the infant's early years [3,4].
Source: Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes and Essential Fatty Acids - Category: Biomedical Science Authors: Source Type: research