Docosahexaenoic acid lessens hepatic lipid accumulation and inflammation via the AMP-activated protein kinase and endoplasmic reticulum stress signaling pathways in grass carp ( Ctenopharyngodon idella )

. In contrast, the inhibitor of AMPK (compound C, CC) abrogated the effects of DHA to improve PA-induced liver injury and ER stress. In conclusion, DHA inhibits ER stress in hepatocytes by the activation of AMPK and exerts protective effects on hepatic steatosis in terms of improving antioxidant ability, relieving hepatic inflammation and inhibiting hepatic lipogenesis. Our findings give a theoretical foundation for further elucidation of the beneficial role of DHA in vertebrates.