DHA is a 22-carbon, highly unsaturated omega-3 fatty acid (22:6 n‑3) classified among long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. Biochemically it is incorporated into cell membranes, especially in neural tissue and vascular cells, where it affects membrane fluidity, receptor function, and lipid-derived signaling molecules. Historically recognized since the mid‑20th century for roles in brain and eye development, DHA has also been studied for associations with cardiovascular biology. Because humans convert short-chain omega-3s (like ALA) to DHA only inefficiently, circulating DHA levels largely reflect dietary intake, metabolism, and individual processing patterns revealed by genetics and other biomarkers.

Lower DHA levels may indicate limited dietary intake or impaired conversion from shorter omega-3 precursors and are often seen alongside lipid patterns and inflammatory markers that suggest lower omega-3 status. Associations include differences in triglyceride handling, inflammatory signaling, and cellular membrane composition, but interpretation depends on the full lipid and inflammation profile. Higher DHA levels typically reflect higher dietary intake or supplementation and can be associated with shifts in lipid composition, platelet activity, and inflammatory signaling. Elevated values should be read in context with other Cardio Zoomer markers—lipid fractions, inflammation, coagulation, and genetics—to understand whether the pattern is adaptive, neutral, or linked to other risk features.

DHA is included in Cardio Zoomer because it provides a readout of omega-3 status that intersects with lipid quality, inflammation, and vascular biology. Together with lipids, inflammatory markers, and genetic data, DHA helps clinicians distinguish patterns of cardiometabolic balance and personalize prevention or monitoring strategies.