Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation in preterm infants.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Extremely low birth weight and very low birth weight infants are born immature and are commonly sick and are, therefore, not able to receive appropriate enteral or sufficient parenteral nutrition to meet the needs for optimal brain, lung and gut growth and development. RECENT
FINDINGS: We provide an updated view of essential fatty acid metabolism and discuss the potential protective effect of fatty acids that serve as precursors for eicosanoids and docosanoids. The balance of n-3 or n-6 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) supplied may enhance or ameliorate the effects of hypoxia, inflammation, infection, thrombosis and oxidative damage of key organs (lung, brain and retina). In addition, n-3 and n-6 LCPUFAs are necessary for normal structure and function of the central nervous system and sensory organ development. These lipids generate eicosanoids that are mediators of oxidative damage, as well as potential protectors of retina, brain cortex, lung and vascular endothelium.
SUMMARY: n-3 and n-6 LCPUFAs may condition in part the long-term consequences of preterm birth. Early n-3 and n-6 LCPUFA supply may moderate the impact of hypoxia and oxidative damage, thus affecting the recovery from injury, later organ (brain, retina, lung, gut, liver and skin) growth and neurodevelopmental outcomes.