Unlocking Bipolar Disorder: Arachidonic Acids’ Surprising Protective Role

A recent study published in the Elsevier journal Biological Psychiatry found a link between a genetic predisposition to higher circulating levels of lipids containing arachidonic acid—an omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid found in eggs, poultry, and seafood—and a decreased protective risk for bipolar disorder. Potential dietary or lifestyle changes are made possible by this new information.

The crippling mood condition bipolar disorder is typified by recurrent periods of mania and depression. Bipolar illness is strongly heritable, despite the fact that its origin is yet unknown. The results of this investigation support the idea that circulating metabolites are a major etiological factor in bipolar illness and other psychiatric illnesses by showing a protective connection between bipolar disorder and changed metabolite levels.

“A growing body of evidence suggests a role for metabolites in bipolar disorder and other psychiatric disorders,” says lead investigator David Stacey, PhD, Australian Centre for Precision Health, University of South Australia; UniSA Clinical and Health Sciences; and South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, Australia. Therefore, we intended to highlight possible dietary or lifestyle changes by identifying metabolites that are causative in bipolar illness.”

Using Mendelian randomization, a potent technique for drawing conclusions about causal relationships, researchers found that 33 of the 913 blood metabolites examined were linked to bipolar disorder; the majority of these protective metabolites were lipids.

Exploring the Protective Role of Arachidonic Acid in Bipolar Disorder and Neurodevelopmental Health

The FADS1/2/3 gene cluster mediates the link between bipolar disorder and arachidonic acid levels, influencing lipid metabolism.

John Krystal, MD, states that arachidonic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid, supports cell membrane integrity in the body and brain. This research advances the search for blood biomarkers linked to bipolar disorder risk, particularly for FADS1/2/3 gene variant carriers.

Dr. Stacey notes a genetic link: higher arachidonic acid levels lower bipolar disorder risk, unlike linoleic acid levels. Since the liver converts linoleic acid into arachidonic acid, bipolar disorder may relate to mechanisms producing arachidonic acid.

Nourishing the Future: Arachidonic Acid’s Role in Brain Development and Bipolar Disorder Risk

Arachidonic acid, found in human milk, enhances brain development, so manufacturers add it to infant formula. Current theories suggest bipolar disorder may impact risk by altering neurodevelopmental pathways, reinforcing its classification as a neurodevelopmental condition. Foods high in linoleic acid, like nuts and seeds, generate arachidonic acid, also found in meat and seafood.

Dr. Stacey concludes, “This is the first study to highlight a potential causal role of arachidonic acid in bipolar disorder.” Arachidonic acid supplements need preclinical research and trials, focusing on individuals with limited dietary sources or synthesis issues. Our findings suggest precision health interventions to ensure adequate arachidonic acid for optimal brain development and reduced bipolar disorder risk.