Widespread but moderate genetic overlap between circulating polyunsaturated fatty acids and brain disorders.

Background: Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are indispensable for proper neuronal function. PUFA deficiency and imbalance have been linked to various brain disorders, including major depressive disorder (MDD) and anxiety. However, the effects of PUFAs on brain disorders remain inconclusive, and the extent of their shared genetic determinants is largely unknown.

Shared genetic basis informs the roles of polyunsaturated fatty acids in brain disorders.

The neural tissue is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), components that are indispensable for the proper functioning of neurons, such as neurotransmission. PUFA nutritional deficiency and imbalance have been linked to a variety of chronic brain disorders, including major depressive disorder (MDD), anxiety, and anorexia. However, the effects of PUFAs on brain disorders remain inconclusive, and the extent of their shared genetic determinants is largely unknown.