Phosphatidylserine 3

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Phosphatidylserine; Membrane Nutrient for Memory. A Clinical and Mechanistic
Assessment

Parris M. Kidd, PhD


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Abstract

Working in the cell membrane milieu, phosphatidylserine (PS) is a nutrient
that supports membrane proteins crucial for homeostasis, maintenance, and
specialized cell functions. PS is found most concentrated in the brain,
where its relative abundance reflects its involvement in specialized nerve
cell functions such as chemical transmitter production and release, receptor
action, and synaptic activity.

The fundamental contributions of PS to the structure and function of
individual nerve cells are expressed in the performance of the brain as a
whole. More than 35 human studies that span almost 3 decades, together with
numerous animal studies, indicate PS supports EEG integration, the HPAA
(hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis), and circadian rhythms of hormone
release. Some sixteen clinical trials indicate that PS benefits measurable
cognitive functions which tend to decline with age; these include memory,
learning, vocabulary skills and concentration, as well as mood, alertness,
and sociability.

PS is a phospholipid, ubiquitous in membranes and obligatory for all the
cells of the body. Present in common foods in small amounts, PS may be a
semi-essential nutrient. Although it can be synthesized in vivo from
precursors, its multistep biosynthesis is energetically costly.

Until recently, supplemental PS was available only from bovine brain. Now PS
is available as a soy lecithin-based concentrate. With its proven benefits
against age-related mental decline, phosphatidylserine might represent a
truly safe and effective means for improving the quality of life of the
elderly. (Alt Med Rev 1996;1(2):70-84)


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