NeuroStructure DHA
Boost
400 mg DHA
Sustain
200 mg DHA
Form
AvailOm® High DHA
Bioavailability
5-9× vs Ethyl Esters
Mechanism of Action
Mechanism of Action
DHA (all-cis-docosa-4,7,10,13,16,19-hexaenoic acid) operates through four distinct but interconnected mechanisms:
Why Six Double Bonds Matter: DHA’s unique structure — 22 carbons with 6 cis double bonds — creates extraordinary conformational flexibility. The molecule rapidly isomerizes between thousands of conformational states, creating “loosely packed” membrane domains that allow embedded proteins to move, change shape, and function. Without adequate DHA, membrane viscosity increases, receptor function declines, and synaptic transmission becomes sluggish.
Key Finding (Kim Laboratory, NIH): DHA-containing phospholipids (PC and PE) are the preferred substrates for phosphatidylserine synthase enzymes. When neurons are supplemented with DHA, PS content increases specifically in neuronal cells — not in other cell types like CHO-K1 or HEK-293. This neuron-specific PS expansion has profound consequences:
Neuroprotectin D1 — The Brain’s Resolution Signal:
Mechanism 1: Neuronal Membrane Architecture (Primary Mechanism)
DHA’s fundamental role is as the primary structural lipid of neuronal membranes:| Brain Region | DHA Content | Functional Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Gray matter | 35-40% of phospholipids | Neuronal cell bodies, synapses |
| Synaptic membranes | 60-65% of PS molecular species | Signal transmission |
| Retina (photoreceptors) | 60% of PUFAs | Phototransduction |
| Hippocampus | High concentration | Learning and memory |
Mechanism 2: Phosphatidylserine Synthesis (Critical for Neuronal Survival)
DHA uniquely drives PS accumulation in neurons — a mechanism with profound implications for cell survival:| PS Synthesis Step | DHA’s Role | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| PSS1 substrate | 18:0,22:6-PC is best substrate | Kim et al. 2004 |
| PSS2 substrate | 18:0,22:6-PE is best substrate | Wen & Kim 2007 |
| PS accumulation | DHA uniquely increases neuronal PS | Garcia et al. 1998 |
| Neuron-specific | Effect occurs only in neurons | Guo et al. 2007 |
- PS provides the docking site for Akt’s PH domain
- Akt membrane translocation is required for phosphorylation and activation
- Activated Akt phosphorylates pro-survival targets (Bad, GSK-3β, FOXO)
- Result: Enhanced neuronal survival under stress conditions
Mechanism 3: Specialized Pro-Resolving Mediators (SPMs)
DHA is the precursor to D-series resolvins, protectins, and maresins — bioactive lipid mediators that actively resolve inflammation:| SPM | Precursor | Key Actions | Potency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neuroprotectin D1 (NPD1) | DHA via 15-LOX | Neuroprotection, anti-Aβ, anti-apoptotic | Picomolar |
| Resolvin D1 (RvD1) | DHA via 15-LOX/5-LOX | Stops neutrophil transmigration | Nanomolar |
| Resolvin D2 (RvD2) | DHA via 15-LOX/5-LOX | Reduces inflammatory cytokines | Nanomolar |
| Maresin 1 (MaR1) | DHA via 12-LOX | Promotes macrophage efferocytosis | Nanomolar |
- Synthesized in brain tissue from DHA in response to oxidative stress
- Potent protection against amyloid-β-induced apoptosis
- Inhibits COX-2 expression and pro-inflammatory gene transcription
- Promotes pro-survival Bcl-2 family protein expression
- Active at picomolar concentrations — extraordinarily potent
Mechanism 4: BDNF Upregulation and Neuroplasticity
DHA enhances brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) through epigenetic and transcriptional mechanisms:| BDNF Effect | DHA Contribution | Cognitive Relevance |
|---|---|---|
| ↑ BDNF mRNA | CREB activation | Learning capacity |
| ↑ Synaptic proteins | Synapsin-1, PSD-95, GluR-1 | Memory consolidation |
| ↑ Dendritic spines | 30%+ increase in hippocampus | Neural connectivity |
| Enhanced LTP | Stronger synaptic potentiation | Memory formation |
Molecular Identity
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| IUPAC Name | (4Z,7Z,10Z,13Z,16Z,19Z)-docosa-4,7,10,13,16,19-hexaenoic acid |
| Notation | 22:6(n-3) or 22:6ω3 |
| Synonyms | Cervonic acid, DHA |
| Molecular Formula | C₂₂H₃₂O₂ |
| Molecular Weight | 328.49 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 6217-54-5 |
| Double Bonds | 6 (all cis configuration) |
| Melting Point | -44°C (liquid at body temperature) |
AvailOm® Technology
AvailOm® Technology
The Bioavailability Problem
Traditional omega-3 supplements face fundamental absorption challenges:AvailOm® High DHA Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Form | Omega-3 lysine complex powder |
| DHA Content | ≥30% free fatty acid by weight |
| EPA Content | ~15% free fatty acid by weight |
| Total EPA+DHA | ≥50% as free fatty acids |
| Lysine Content | ~14% L-lysine (essential amino acid) |
| Appearance | Free-flowing powder |
| Stability | >4 years at 25°C (no refrigeration) |
| Regulatory | GRAS (FDA), NDI registered, Novel Food (EU) |
Clinical Bioavailability Evidence
Wageningen University Study (2020):- First in-human pharmacokinetic trial
- Crossover design: AvailOm® vs standard ethyl ester
- Result: 5× higher AUC for AvailOm®
- Faster Tmax (peak reached earlier)
- 21 healthy subjects (10 men, 11 women)
- Three-way crossover: AvailOm® vs EE vs TG
- Results:
| Comparison | 0-12h Bioavailability | 0-24h Bioavailability |
|---|---|---|
| AvailOm® vs Ethyl Ester | 9.33× higher | 8.09× higher |
| AvailOm® vs Triglyceride | 1.57× higher | 1.44× higher |
Why Lysine Complexation Works
- Stabilization: Lysine (cationic amino acid) forms ionic complex with free fatty acid (anionic)
- Powder form: Creates stable, dry powder from liquid oil
- Gastric dissociation: Complex rapidly breaks down at gastric pH
- Direct absorption: Free fatty acids absorbed directly by enterocytes
- No enzymatic step: Bypasses need for pancreatic lipase
- No bile dependence: Absorbs efficiently regardless of dietary fat
Bonus: L-Lysine
AvailOm® provides ~14% L-lysine by weight — an essential amino acid:- Required for carnitine synthesis (fat transport into mitochondria)
- Supports collagen formation
- Enhances calcium absorption
- Contributes to daily amino acid requirements
Clinical Evidence
Clinical Evidence
DHA and Cognitive Function
| Study | Population | Dose/Duration | Key Findings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lee et al. (2013) | MCI, 12 months | 1491mg DHA + 351mg EPA | ↑ Short-term memory, working memory, immediate verbal memory, delayed recall |
| Stonehouse et al. (2013) | Healthy young adults | 1160mg DHA, 6 months | ↑ Episodic memory (women), ↓ RT working memory (men) |
| Zhang et al. (2018) | MCI, 12 months | 2g DHA/day | ↑ Full-scale IQ, Information, Digit Span; slowed hippocampal atrophy |
| Yurko-Mauro et al. (2010) | ARCD, 24 weeks | 900mg DHA/day | ↑ Paired associate learning (PAL) memory |
DHA and Brain Volume/Structure
Zhang et al. 2016 (Tianjin, China):- 240 MCI subjects, 12-month RCT
- 2g DHA/day vs corn oil placebo
- Results:
| Outcome | DHA Effect | P-value |
|---|---|---|
| Left hippocampal volume | Preserved | p = 0.016 |
| Right hippocampal volume | Preserved | p = 0.008 |
| Total hippocampal volume | Preserved | p = 0.023 |
| Global cerebrum volume | Preserved | p = 0.032 |
| Full-Scale IQ | Improved | p = 0.039 |
| Digit Span | Improved | p < 0.001 |
DHA Brain Delivery (CSF Penetration)
Arellanes et al. (2020) — eBioMedicine:- 33 cognitively unimpaired adults
- 2,152mg DHA/day for 6 months
- Lumbar puncture before and after
| Outcome | Change | P-value |
|---|---|---|
| CSF DHA | +28% | p < 0.0001 |
| CSF EPA | +43% | p < 0.0001 |
Meta-Analysis: Dose-Response Relationship
2025 Meta-Analysis (Scientific Reports):- 58 RCTs included
- Dose-response analysis per 2000mg/day omega-3
| Cognitive Domain | SMD per 2g/day | 95% CI | GRADE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Attention | 0.98 | 0.41–1.54 | Low |
| Perceptual speed | 0.50 | 0.05–0.95 | Moderate |
| Language | 0.37 | 0.12–0.62 | Moderate |
Stage-Dependent Effects
Clinical evidence consistently shows DHA is most effective when initiated before significant cognitive decline:| Population | DHA Efficacy | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Healthy adults | Positive (memory, RT) | Prevention potential |
| Mild cognitive impairment | Positive (multiple domains) | Early intervention effective |
| Early Alzheimer’s (MMSE >27) | Positive | Narrow therapeutic window |
| Moderate-severe Alzheimer’s | Negative | Too late; damage irreversible |
APOE Genotype Considerations
APOE4 carriers show altered DHA metabolism:- Less efficient DHA delivery to brain
- Lower CSF DHA increase after supplementation
- May require higher doses for equivalent brain effects
- Shorter DHA half-life in plasma
Synergies
Synergies
DHA + Phosphatidylserine (Synergistic PS Expansion)
DHA and exogenous PS work through complementary mechanisms:NTRPX Synergy: ASG Boost contains both DHA (400mg) and Phosphatidylserine (100mg), providing dual-pathway PS optimization.DHA + Choline + Uridine (Kennedy Cycle)
The “Kennedy Cycle” for phosphatidylcholine synthesis is enhanced by DHA:MIT Research (Wurtman Lab): Combined DHA + choline + uridine supplementation increases hippocampal synapses by 30%+ in animal models.NTRPX Implementation:- DHA from AvailOm® High DHA
- Choline from CDP-Choline (Citicoline)
- Uridine provided by CDP-Choline breakdown
DHA + Vitamin D3 + K2 (Fat-Soluble Triad)
Synergy Logic:- DHA provides optimal membrane environment for vitamin D receptor function
- Vitamin D regulates serotonin synthesis — DHA enhances serotonin receptor function
- K2 activates Gas6 (neuroprotective) — requires proper membrane integration
- AvailOm® oil matrix enhances absorption of fat-soluble vitamins
DHA + EPA (Complementary Omega-3s)
| Omega-3 | Primary Role | Brain Fate | NTRPX Timing |
|---|---|---|---|
| DHA | Structural (membrane) | Incorporated into phospholipids | AM (Boost) |
| EPA | Signaling (anti-inflammatory) | Rapidly metabolized to SPMs | PM (Recover) |
DHA + Magnesium
| Magnesium Role | DHA Interaction |
|---|---|
| Enzyme cofactor | Required for fatty acid metabolism enzymes |
| Membrane stability | Both modulate membrane fluidity |
| GABA function | Both support GABAergic signaling |
| Anti-inflammatory | Complementary pathways |
Dosing Strategy
Dosing Strategy
NTRPX DHA Distribution
| Product | DHA Dose | EPA Dose | Total ω-3 | Timing Rationale |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ASG Boost™ | 400mg | 300mg | 700mg | Morning structural foundation |
| ASG Sustain™ | 200mg | 100mg | 300mg | Afternoon maintenance |
| ASG Recover™ | 100mg | 300mg | 400mg | Evening EPA-dominant recovery |
| Daily Total | 700mg | 700mg | 1,400mg | Comprehensive coverage |
Effective Dose Equivalency
AvailOm® bioavailability advantage means lower doses achieve equivalent plasma levels:| AvailOm® Dose | Equivalent Ethyl Ester Dose | Equivalent TG Dose |
|---|---|---|
| 100mg DHA | 500-900mg DHA (EE) | 140-160mg DHA (TG) |
| 400mg DHA | 2,000-3,600mg DHA (EE) | 560-640mg DHA (TG) |
| 700mg DHA (daily) | 3,500-6,300mg DHA (EE) | 980-1,120mg DHA (TG) |
Evidence-Based Dosing by Indication
| Indication | DHA Dose | Duration | Evidence Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| General brain health | 250-500mg | Ongoing | Strong |
| Cognitive optimization | 500-1,000mg | Ongoing | Moderate-Strong |
| MCI intervention | 1,000-2,000mg | 12+ months | Strong |
| Pregnancy/lactation | 200-600mg | Gestation + nursing | Strong (critical) |
| Cardiovascular | 500-1,000mg | Ongoing | Strong |
Timing Considerations
| Timing | Rationale | NTRPX Implementation |
|---|---|---|
| With food | Enhanced absorption (though AvailOm® less food-dependent) | Recommended with meals |
| Morning emphasis | DHA structural role; cognitive priming | Boost (400mg DHA) |
| Split dosing | Maintains more stable plasma levels | Boost + Sustain |
| Evening EPA | Resolution during sleep/recovery | Recover (EPA-dominant) |
Population-Specific Dosing
| Population | DHA Consideration | NTRPX Guidance |
|---|---|---|
| Healthy adults | 500-700mg/day adequate | Standard protocol |
| APOE4 carriers | May need higher doses | Consider adding fatty fish 2×/week |
| Elderly (65+) | Higher baseline need | Standard protocol appropriate |
| Pregnancy | Critical for fetal brain | Consult physician; DHA essential |
| Vegetarian/vegan | Algal DHA option | AvailOm® is fish-derived; algal alternatives exist |
Whole Foods Sources
Whole Foods Sources
Omega-3 Content of Common Foods
| Food Source | Serving | DHA (mg) | EPA (mg) | Total ω-3 (mg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlantic Salmon (wild) | 3 oz (85g) | 1,240 | 590 | 1,830 |
| Atlantic Salmon (farmed) | 3 oz (85g) | 1,090 | 590 | 1,680 |
| Atlantic Mackerel | 3 oz (85g) | 1,400 | 500 | 4,580* |
| Sardines (canned) | 3 oz (85g) | 740 | 450 | 1,190 |
| Herring | 3 oz (85g) | 940 | 770 | 1,710 |
| Anchovies | 3 oz (85g) | 870 | 760 | 1,630 |
| Rainbow Trout (farmed) | 3 oz (85g) | 500 | 400 | 900 |
| Albacore Tuna | 3 oz (85g) | 530 | 200 | 730 |
| Oysters (raw) | 6 medium | 200 | 260 | 460 |
| Cod | 3 oz (85g) | 130 | 50 | 180 |
Food Equivalents for NTRPX Daily DHA
To match NTRPX’s 700mg DHA from AvailOm® (accounting for 5-9× bioavailability = 3,500-6,300mg equivalent):| Food Source | Amount Needed Daily | Practical? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wild Salmon | 10-18 oz (280-510g) | ✗ Impractical | Cost: $15-30/day |
| Canned Sardines | 15-27 oz (425-765g) | ✗ Impractical | 4-7 cans/day |
| Mackerel | 7-13 oz (200-370g) | ⚠️ Challenging | Mercury consideration |
| Herring | 12-21 oz (340-595g) | ✗ Impractical | Rare in Western diet |
- Standard fish oil absorption is 5-9× lower than AvailOm®
- Cost of high-quality fatty fish
- Practical consumption limits
- Mercury exposure with large fish
- Preparation time
Dietary Strategy for NTRPX Users
Optimized Approach: Use NTRPX omega-3s as reliable baseline; add whole food sources for additional benefits:| Weekly Target | Rationale | Foods |
|---|---|---|
| 2-3 fatty fish servings | Provides matrix of nutrients beyond DHA | Salmon, sardines, mackerel |
| Seafood variety | Additional minerals (zinc, selenium, iodine) | Oysters, mussels, shrimp |
| Low-mercury choices | Safety | Sardines, anchovies, herring |
Why Not Plant Sources?
| Source | Omega-3 Type | Conversion to DHA | Practical DHA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flaxseed | ALA | <0.5% conversion | Negligible |
| Chia seeds | ALA | <0.5% conversion | Negligible |
| Walnuts | ALA | <0.5% conversion | Negligible |
| Hemp seeds | ALA | <0.5% conversion | Negligible |
- ALA → EPA: ~5-10%
- ALA → DHA: <0.5%
Cost Comparison
| Source | Daily Cost for Equivalent DHA |
|---|---|
| Wild salmon (6+ oz/day) | $15-25 |
| Quality fish oil softgels (8-12 caps) | $2-4 |
| NTRPX (AvailOm® DHA) | Included in system |
| AvailOm® (standalone) | ~$1-2 |
Safety & Classification
Safety & Classification
Adverse Event Profile
| Event | Incidence | Severity | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fishy aftertaste | Rare with AvailOm® | Minimal | Lysine complex prevents |
| GI upset | Uncommon | Mild | Less than ethyl esters |
| Loose stools | Rare | Mild | High doses only |
| Prolonged bleeding time | Theoretical | N/A | Only at very high doses |
Safety Data
| Parameter | Finding | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Human clinical (up to 3g/day) | No serious adverse events | Multiple RCTs |
| FDA GRAS | Up to 3g/day EPA+DHA | FDA |
| EFSA | Up to 5g/day EPA+DHA | EFSA 2012 |
| Oxidation markers | No increase at clinical doses | Multiple studies |
| LDL cholesterol | Modest increase possible at high doses | Monitor if concerned |
| AvailOm® stability | >4 years, low oxidation | Evonik data |
Regulatory Status
| Region | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| United States | GRAS; dietary supplement | NDI registered |
| European Union | Novel Food approved | AvailOm® specifically |
| Japan | Food ingredient | Long history |
| Canada | NHP eligible | Licensed products |
Drug Interactions
| Drug Class | Interaction | Severity | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Anticoagulants (warfarin) | Additive bleeding risk | ★★★☆☆ | Monitor INR |
| Antiplatelet (aspirin, clopidogrel) | Additive effect | ★★☆☆☆ | Generally safe; monitor |
| Antihypertensives | Additive BP lowering | ★☆☆☆☆ | May allow dose reduction |
| Statins | Complementary | ★☆☆☆☆ | Beneficial combination |
Contraindications
| Category | Consideration | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Fish/shellfish allergy | Use algal DHA alternative | ★★★★★ Absolute |
| Scheduled surgery | Stop 1-2 weeks before | ★★★☆☆ Temporary |
| Active bleeding | Avoid until resolved | ★★★★☆ Temporary |
Special Populations
| Population | Safety Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Healthy adults | Excellent | Well-tolerated |
| Pregnancy | Essential | DHA critical for fetal brain; 200-600mg recommended |
| Lactation | Essential | DHA transfers to breast milk |
| Children | Excellent | Age-appropriate dosing |
| Elderly | Excellent | May have higher requirements |
| APOE4 carriers | Safe | May need higher doses for effect |
Tier 1: Foundation
Efficacy
High — Essential structural nutrient
Validation
Strong — Extensive RCTs, mechanism elucidated
Safety
Excellent — GRAS, essential nutrient, long history
Practical Considerations
Practical Considerations
When to Use DHA
| Scenario | Expected Benefit | Protocol |
|---|---|---|
| Cognitive optimization | High | 400-700mg daily, ongoing |
| Memory support | High | 500-1000mg daily, 6+ months |
| MCI intervention | High | 1000-2000mg daily, 12+ months |
| Pregnancy/nursing | Critical | 200-600mg daily, entire period |
| Cardiovascular | High | 500-1000mg daily, ongoing |
| General wellness | Moderate-High | 250-500mg daily, ongoing |
Realistic Expectations
| Timeframe | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Week 1-2 | Plasma DHA rising; minimal subjective effects |
| Week 4-8 | RBC membrane composition changing |
| Month 3 | Brain DHA increasing; subtle cognitive effects |
| Month 6+ | Measurable cognitive and structural benefits |
| Ongoing | Maintained brain architecture; prevention effects |
Signs It’s Working
| Indicator | Description |
|---|---|
| ↑ Mental clarity | Improved focus and processing |
| ↑ Memory | Better recall, especially episodic |
| ↓ Brain fog | Reduced cognitive fatigue |
| Mood stability | More even emotional state |
| Visual function | Potentially improved (DHA in retina) |
Optimizing Response
| Strategy | Rationale |
|---|---|
| Take with meals | Enhanced absorption (less critical with AvailOm®) |
| Consistent daily use | Membrane incorporation requires chronic dosing |
| Combine with PS | Dual-pathway PS optimization |
| Include choline | Kennedy Cycle synergy |
| Ensure vitamin D | Receptor function requires membrane fluidity |
| Add fatty fish | Whole food matrix benefits |
Frequently Asked Questions
How is DHA different from fish oil?
How is DHA different from fish oil?
DHA is the active molecule — one of the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil. Standard fish oil contains a mix of omega-3s (typically 30% EPA+DHA), plus other fatty acids. NTRPX uses concentrated DHA in the highly bioavailable AvailOm® form, ensuring you get the specific brain-building fatty acid in optimal amounts without filler fats.
Why does it take months to feel effects?
Why does it take months to feel effects?
DHA is a structural molecule — it physically incorporates into your neuronal membranes. This isn’t like caffeine (instant effect) or even adaptogens (weeks). Membrane remodeling takes time: DHA must be absorbed, transported to the brain, acylated into phospholipids, and distributed across billions of neurons. Full membrane saturation requires 3-6 months of consistent supplementation.
Can I get enough DHA from diet alone?
Can I get enough DHA from diet alone?
Theoretically yes, but practically difficult. You’d need to eat fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines) almost daily. Most people eat fish 1-2× per week at best, providing ~100mg DHA daily — far below optimal. Factor in cost ($15-25/day for adequate salmon), mercury concerns, and convenience, and supplementation becomes the practical solution.
What about plant-based omega-3s (flax, chia)?
What about plant-based omega-3s (flax, chia)?
Plant sources provide ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), not DHA. Humans convert ALA to DHA at <0.5% efficiency. You cannot meaningfully raise brain DHA levels with flax or chia seeds. If avoiding fish, use algae-derived DHA supplements (the original DHA source that fish accumulate).
Is AvailOm® worth the premium over standard fish oil?
Is AvailOm® worth the premium over standard fish oil?
Should APOE4 carriers take more DHA?
Should APOE4 carriers take more DHA?
Possibly. Research shows APOE4 carriers have less efficient DHA brain delivery and lower CSF DHA increases after supplementation. While the standard NTRPX dose provides excellent coverage, APOE4 carriers may benefit from additional fatty fish consumption or considering the upper end of dosing ranges. Discuss with a physician if you know your APOE status.
Can pregnant women take NTRPX DHA?
Can pregnant women take NTRPX DHA?
DHA is essential during pregnancy — it’s critical for fetal brain and eye development. International guidelines recommend 200-600mg DHA daily during pregnancy and lactation. However, pregnant women should consult their physician before taking any supplements, including NTRPX products.
Does DHA help with depression?
Does DHA help with depression?
The omega-3 with strongest antidepressant evidence is EPA, not DHA. DHA supports brain structure and serotonin receptor function, but EPA more directly modulates inflammatory pathways linked to depression. NTRPX provides both: DHA-predominant in Boost/Sustain for structure, EPA-predominant in Recover for mood/inflammation.
Version: 1.0 | Last Updated: January 23, 2026 | Document Status: Complete Clinical MonographThis monograph establishes the DHA framework for NTRPX Systems. AvailOm® High DHA has been selected as the gold-standard delivery form based on superior bioavailability (5-9× vs ethyl esters), stability (>4 years), and clinical validation. Doses and product placements are optimized for synergy with phosphatidylserine, choline, and other NTRPX ingredients.

