Docosahexaenoic Acid Modulates Oxidative Stress over PI3K Signaling Pathway Activation in Age Related Macular Degeneration

Regular and high consumption of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) like DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) prevents the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by acting on oxidative stress. DHA is found in high concentration in the retina. The biochemical properties of DHA influence the fluidity and function of the membrane-photoreceptor [1]. Nutrients from the (Age-related eye disease study 2) (AREDS2) shows that (lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, copper, eicosapentanoic acid [EPA], and docosahexanoic acid [DHA]) set forth by the National Institutes of Health remain the most proven nutritional therapy for reducing the rate of advanced AMD [2]. Epidemiological studies highlight the benefit of promoting the consumption of long-chain omega-3 PUFAs, including DHA, and lowering the intake of omega-6 fatty acids to reduce the risk for developing AMD [3,4]. The intracellular and the epigenetic mechanism involved in oxidative stress-mediated RPE cell death is partly understood. It is very likely that t-BHP decreased cell proliferation and induced apoptosis via inhibition of histone methyltransferase G9a. Interestingly, as G9a maintains genomic imprinting [5], aberrant expression of imprinted genes leads to severe human disorders [6]. Therefore, DHA may prevent the initiation of aging related diseases via epigenetic associated mechanisms.