Introduction

The present invention relates to an ester of a phospholipid with conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) as a nutritional supplement in treatment of psychiatric disorders with neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative basis, such as depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Technical features

The search for alternative therapies in place of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for neuroinflammation is crucial since the risk of side effects derived from their use has been demonstrated especially during pregnancy with serious outcomes such as the development of sexual organs in the fetus as well as subsequent psychiatric trajectory in the offspring life in both sexes. Therefore, an alternative therapeutic approach would be resolutive to pharmacological treatment. We have shown in in-vivo models that the dietary intake of 0.5% CLA (i) increases omega-3 DHA fatty acid levels by approx. 10 times in both the maternal and fetal liver, and approx. 5 times in the fetal brain; (ii) increases gene expression of PPAR alpha and its PEA and OEA ligands. These molecules are known to exert a potent anti-neuroinflammatory activity and thereby a protective effect against those psychiatric disorders with neuroinflammatory basis. Furthermore, as ester of a phospholipid the bioavailability of CLA is increased.
TRL= 3 – 4 (in-vivo)

Possible Applications

• Psychiatric disorders with neuroinflammatory basis such as depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

Advantages

• Absence of side effects;
• Suitable also during critical windows of vulnerability such as pregnancy and infancy;
• CLA can be formulated as a functional food, facilitating its compliance.