Palmitate Compromises C6 Astrocytic Cell Viability and Mitochondrial Function.

Consumption of high-fat diets (HFD) is associated with brain alterations, including changes in feeding behavior, cognitive decline, and dementia. Astrocytes play a role in HFD-induced neuroinflammation and brain dysfunction; however, this process is not entirely understood. We hypothesized that exposure to saturated fatty acids can compromise astrocyte viability and mitochondrial function.

Obesity-Induced Brain Neuroinflammatory and Mitochondrial Changes.

Obesity is defined as abnormal and excessive fat accumulation, and it is a risk factor for developing metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive deficits. Obesity is caused by an imbalance in energy homeostasis resulting from increased caloric intake associated with a sedentary lifestyle. However, the entire physiopathology linking obesity with neurodegeneration and cognitive decline has not yet been elucidated.