DHA has an important role in the metabolic pathways of the peroxisome. The peroxisome is a single membrane organelle present in nearly all eukaryotic cells (membrane bound cell structures). The peroxisome system is involved in several metabolic processes including the oxidation of long and very long chain fatty acids, of cholesterol synthesis, bile acid synthesis, amino acid metabolism and purine metabolism.
Hydrogen peroxide is a byproduct of fatty acid oxidation. The enzyme catalase is an enzyme that prevents hydrogen peroxide from harming the cell. Catalase is located in the peroxisome. DHA enables the catalase enzyme to protect the cell.
DHA is incorporated into the cell membranes of red blood cells, platelet cells and cells of the brain and retina. DHA is a determinant of membrane fluidity in brain cells, is taken up by the brain in preference to other fatty acids. As a brain nourisher; DHA is an essential component in the maintenance of normal cognition and mood. In addition to coldwater fish, walnuts have high levels of omega 3.
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