Trans Fat Intake and Behavior

Abstract Trans fatty acids (TFAs) are unsaturated fatty acids that contain at least one nonconjugated double bond in the trans configuration, resulting in a straighter shape. Many nutritional studies indicate that high consumption of industrial TFAs may cause several adverse effects on human health, including cardiovascular diseases, insulin resistance, increased plasma markers of inflammation, and decreased defenses against oxidative damage. In addition, dietary TFA can be easily incorporated into membrane phospholipids, modifying their fluidity, which can be reflected on the biochemical properties and functionality of their transmembrane proteins. Evidence from experimental studies indicates that TFAs are able to exert prolonged deleterious influences on functionality of the brain neural systems. The underlying mechanisms are still poorly understood, but they may involve TFA incorporation into neuronal membranes, thus affecting their morphology, neurophysiology, and neurotransmission. Such modifications can facilitate dysfunctions of the membrane signaling pathway, which represent an important mediation between TFA consumption and behavioral disorders.