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PS is a naturally occurring phospholipid in the brain that exerts a number of metabolic and pharmacologic effects. Numerous studies have documented the impact of PS on specific neurotransmitters in the brain including acetylcholine, serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine. Many researchers also agree that all of these neurochemical systems are involved in age-related cognitive functioning. A recent 6-month Israeli study showed that patients taking 300 mg of PS per day had positive results in attention, concentration and memory. When individuals were supplemented with 300 mg daily of PS for 45 days, the results showed consistent improvements in behavior.
We, as aging modern humans, are facing a major quandary - we are enjoying living longer lives yet we are confronted with the unique possibility of physically outlasting our brains' capability to think and reason. It is well noted that as we get older, many of us will experience an appreciable decline in mental ability, such as recalling friends' names, maintaining concentration on the task at hand and even processing words. As one begins to lose these higher-level cognitive functions, the impact on self-esteem, productivity and well being are also affected. The most effective way to counteract loss of cognitive function is to recognize the signs early and act on them quickly. Recently, researchers have been conducting human trials directed at slowing down the progressive loss of cognitive capacity and generating protocols for redeeming mental abilities. These investigations led to a particular interest in Phosphatidylserine.
PS is a naturally occurring phospholipid in the brain that demonstrates a number of metabolic and pharmacologic effects on the body (1).* PS in the brain affects a variety of nerve cell functions including the conduction of nerve impulses, the gathering and discharge of neurotransmitters (acetylcholine, serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine) and the maintenance of cellular function - "homeostasis".
PS has been found in combination with other phospholipids (phosphatidylcholine, phosphatidylethanolamine, and phosphatidylinositol), in trace amounts in commercial lecithins and derived from cow brains. Metabolic Response Modifiers (MRM) provides PS derived from soy. PS has shown superb bioavailability when taken orally and studies have shown no side effects with use up to 800 mg (Fahey and Pearl, 1998).* Based on the research that has been performed on PS, it is suggested that PS may be a promising candidate for treating memory loss and increasing exercise performance.
REFERENCES:
- Reprod Fert Suppl. 46: 155, 1993.
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