The anxiolytic activity of n-3 PUFAs enriched egg yolk phospholipids in rat behavioral studies.

Phospholipids play an important role in the biochemical and physiological processes of cells. An association between disturbed phospholipids metabolism in neuronal tissue and anxiety it was shown. The aim of this study was to examine the anxiolytic properties of phospholipids obtained from a new generation of eggs enriched in n-3 PUFA and its effect on locomotor activity in rat behavioral studies N-3 PUFA-enriched egg yolk phospholipids ("super lecithin") were added to the standard feed. Rats were fed by chow without (control group) or with (experimental group) addition of phospholipids. After six weeks of supplementation, the effect of phospholipids on locomotor activity in the open field test and anxiolytic properties in elevated plus maze and Vogel conflict test were examined. In the open field test the total distance traveled in the experimental group was similar to the control group. In the elevated plus maze test a six weeks phospholipids' administration significantly prolonged the time spent on the open arms by rats from experimental group compared to control group. The number of entries into the open arms was also increased but the difference was not statistically significant. The number of punished drinking water in the Vogel conflict test increased significantly in experimental versus control group. The obtained results suggest that the phospholipids isolated from n-3 PUFA enriched egg yolk have a specific anxiolytic effect, without general sedative influence.

Effects of supplementation with fish oil and n-3 PUFAs enriched egg yolk phospholipids on anhedonic-like response and body weight in the rat chronic mild stress model of depression.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids play an important role in the human organism. They guarantee a normal function of nervous cells, influence neurotransmission, and build some elements of cellular membranes. Several reports indicate an association between a deficiency of polyunsaturated fatty acids and depression. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of diet supplemented with fish oil, which is rich in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) and n-3 PUFAs enriched phospholipids ("super lecithin") obtained from designed eggs on anhedonic-like response and body weight in the rat chronic mild stress (CMS) model of depression. The results showed that neither fish oil nor n-3 PUFAs enriched egg yolk phospholipids supplementation reversed disturbances caused by CMS, such as anhedonic-like state or reduction of body weight gain.