Krill Oil Improves Cognitive Function, Depression

OSLOKrill oil improves cognitive function and has antidepressant effects, according to a new study published in the journal Lipids in Health and Disease.

Researchers from Aker BioMarine investigated the effects of Superba krill oil supplementation on cognition, including learning acquisition and working memory, and depression in rats. The modulation of genes linked to memory and changes in neuronal connectivity was also evaluated. The study was conducted at ETAP, a preclinical research centre in France and the University of Bergen, Norway. After seven weeks of treatment, the cognitive and antidepressant effects of krill oil were monitored with behavioral tests and compared to the effects of Imipramine, a reference antidepressant drug. Results showed Superba krill oil significantly improved learning and working memory and had antidepressant-like effects. Krill oil also enhanced expression of Bdnf, a gene implicated in neuronal growth and differentiation.

"We found that in comparison to Imipramine, administration of krill oil did not lead to sedation, which is a regular problem with classic antidepressants," said Michaël Messaoudi, Ph.D., scientific and medical director of ETAP.

Findings from this study show potential for krill oil to aid in the management of depressive disorders. Other studies have shown krill oil to have beneficial effects on obesity-related disorders.

"The special combination of omega-3 fatty acids in phospholipid form in krill oil might give it a further advantage over other omega-3 sources," said Lena Burri, Ph.D., study coordinator, director of scientific writing, Aker BioMarine.