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386934

The Neuroprotective Role of Omega-3 Fatty Acids Against Valproic Acid-Induced Cerebellar Abnormalities: A Narrative Review

Article

Last updated: 07 Jan 2025

Subjects

-

Tags

Anatomy

Abstract

Background: Valproic acid (VPA) can easily pass through the placental barrier, exposing the fetus to harmful effects. Exposure to VPA during pregnancy has been associated with various developmental defects, including Neural Tube Defects and neurodevelopmental disorders such as reduced cognitive function, learning difficulties, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for supporting the health and function of the nervous system. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are forms of omega-3 fatty acids. Both EPA and DHA are essential for brain functions; they improve cognitive function, and have a positive impact against neural damage and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

They are incorporated into the cell membranes of brain cells, helping to maintain proper fluidity and signaling. Omega-3 fatty acids also aid in the production of neurotransmitters, which are vital for communication between nerve cells. Additionally, they possess anti-inflammatory properties that can safeguard the brain from damage caused by oxidative stress and inflammation.

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Conclusion: Exposure to valproic acid during pregnancy had degenerative structural effects on the offspring's cerebellar cortex. Co-administration of Omega-3 is highly recommended to mitigate the toxic effects of VPA when administered at the lowest effective dose.

DOI

10.21608/zumj.2024.318064.3558

Keywords

omega-3, Valproic acid, Cerebellum, neuroprotection

Authors

First Name

Raefa

Last Name

Mahmoud

MiddleName

Mahmoud Mohamed

Affiliation

Demonstrator in Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine,Zagazig University

Email

rere2381991@gmail.com

City

-

Orcid

-

First Name

Eman

Last Name

El-Shetry

MiddleName

Saad

Affiliation

Assistant Professor of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University

Email

saademan8219@gmail.com

City

-

Orcid

-

First Name

Amira

Last Name

Adelaal

MiddleName

Fawzy

Affiliation

Lecturer of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University

Email

amirafawzi2006@gmail.com

City

-

Orcid

-

First Name

Amira

Last Name

Alsemeh

MiddleName

Mohamed Ibrahim

Affiliation

Professor of Human Anatomy and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University

Email

dr.amira.alsemeh@gmail.com

City

-

Orcid

-

Volume

31

Article Issue

1

Related Issue

52176

Issue Date

2025-01-01

Receive Date

2024-09-03

Publish Date

2025-01-01

Page Start

271

Page End

278

Print ISSN

1110-1431

Online ISSN

2357-0717

Link

https://zumj.journals.ekb.eg/article_386934.html

Detail API

http://journals.ekb.eg?_action=service&article_code=386934

Order

386,934

Type

Review Articles

Type Code

349

Publication Type

Journal

Publication Title

Zagazig University Medical Journal

Publication Link

https://zumj.journals.ekb.eg/

MainTitle

The Neuroprotective Role of Omega-3 Fatty Acids Against Valproic Acid-Induced Cerebellar Abnormalities: A Narrative Review

Details

Type

Article

Created At

07 Jan 2025