Trans fat versions of DHA have been found to be incorporated into brain retina etc. in a study in mice.
There is also suggestion with a caveat of more research required that trans fats may adversely impact on aspect of brain, eye function etc.
Trans fat occur as the result of heat treatment of fats etc.
Trans fats are found in some food products margarines etc. Which and to what extent and which fats - an argument for better labelling ?
"Synaptosomes, brain microvessels and retina were shown to contain the highest levels (about 0.5% of total fatty acids) of the trans isomer of docosahexaenoic acid (22:6 delta 4c,7c,10c,13c,16c,19t). This compound was also observed in myelin and sciatic nerve, but to a lesser extent (0.1% of total fatty acids)."
"We conclude that long-term intake of small amounts of trans-isomers of alpha-linolenic acid could disturb visual function. However, further studies are required to determine the mechanisms responsible for this phenomenon."
Its those poor mice we have to thanks for this info again.
RB
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/q...t_uids=7909911
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/q...=pubmed_docsum