The role of lipids in the brain

This chapter considers the role of lipids in the brain. The topic is covered from the point of view of the composition of the many different lipid classes and lipid molecular species found there. The heterogeneity of the brain regions is considered in terms of the lipid composition and function. Specific emphasis is placed on the role of different fatty acids in the brain, including the omega-3 (n-3) and omega-6 (n-6) fatty acids, such as docosahexaenoic acid and AA. How these fatty acids enter the brain from the systemic circulation and the role of diet versus endogenous synthesis is discussed. The impact of exogenous agents and events is covered in the final section, including ethanol, cholesterol and saturated fats, reactive oxygen species, traumatic brain injury, plasticizers, microparticulate plastics, and finally methyl mercury.