Phosphatidylserine (PS) is an aminophospholipid a molecule made up of two fatty acids and a phosphate group attached to a glycerol backbone (derived from the amino acid serine). PS is synthesized in the body and concentrated in cells of the brain, where it may be related to brain cell function and neurotransmitter metabolism. PS is also found in other cell membranes, such as muscle tissue and cells of the immune system, where it may play both a structural and functional role in muscle metabolism and immune system function. Dietary supplements of PS are most often promoted for their role in maintaining brain function, boosting memory, and improving cognitive ability, as well as for their role in modulating stress response and cortisol metabolism and its effects on controlling stress hormones, PS is often found in supplements (hat target immune function, exercise recovery, and relaxation.

Although not all studies are unanimous in their findings for a cognitive benefit of phosphalidylserine supplements, enough evidence exists to consider recommending PS for patients in the early stages of age-related cognitive decline, as well as for those who are under increased physical or emotional stress. In May 2003, the 1:DA reviewed the scientific evidence for PS as a dietary supplement for preventing cognitive dysfunction and dementia in the elderly. Although the FDA determined that there was a lack of “significant scientific agreement” (the standard by which it may award a health claim), the agency also determined that the evidence was appropriate to issue the following qualified health claim for PS: “Consumption of phosphatidylserine may reduce the risk of dementia [or cognitive dysfunction] in the elderly.” In addition, all claims on

preliminary scientific research suggests that phosphatidylserine may reduce the risk of dementia [or cognitive dysfunction] in the elderly. FDA concludes that there is little scientific evidence supporting this claim” (Letter Updating…, 2004). A daily dose of PS is important because it .is an expensive ingredient and many commercial products fail to provide clinically effective levels.

Phosphatidylserine, like odier phospholipids, is a major constituent of cellular membranes. Maintenance of membrane integrity is crucial for proper function, but there is little direct evidence that PS supplements improve membrane integrity or cellular function. PS has, however, been linked to a suppression of cortisol secretion during periods of intense training (20-30%), an effect that may help enhance recover;’ and repair, particularly following intense exercise or injury (Monteleone et al., 1990).

Although not all studies have shown a benefit of PS in reducing symptoms of age-associated memory impairment (AAM1), there are several studies showing improvements in memory, learning, concentration, word recall, and mood in middle-aged and elderly subjects with dementia or age-related cognitive decline. Some of the differences in findings among studies may be related to the degree of cognitive decline in subjects enrolled. For example, one study of 120 elderly subjects with moderate levels of AAM1 found no effect of 300 mg or 600 mg of PS daily for 12 weeks on measures of learning, memory, attention, or reaction time (Jorissen et al., 2001). Other studies of PS supplementation in elderly subjects with milder memory impairment (Crocket al., 1991; Engel et al., 1992) or mild depression (Maggioni et al., 1990) have shown significant improvements on global measurements of cognitive function and psychological testing. Likewise, PS has shown benefits on overall cognitive functioning in more severely affected subjects those with moderate to severe senile dementia (Cenacchi et al,, 1993; Delwaide et al., 1986) and Alzheimer disease (Crook et al., 1992; Heiss et al., 1994). Additionally, isolated reports exist concerning the use of PS to alleviate some symptoms associated with physical stress (Monteleone et al., 1992), Parkinson disease (Funfgeld et al., 1989), arid thyroid hormone dysregulation (Masturzo et al., 1990).

Interestingly, PS could also be considered a general antistress nutrient, providing benefits for athletes subjected to the physical stress ofexercise as well as for persons under chronic emotional stress from, hectic lifestyles, job deadlines, and many of the other stresses of modern life. PS has been shown to reduce blood levels of cortisol, a hormone produced in response to stress (Monteleone et al., 1992). One of the effects of elevated cortisol production is accelerated amino acid catabolism, which could lead to muscle breakdown. Suppression of cortisol levels could theoretically maintain muscle mass during periods of increased stress and intense training, including during the “stress” of dieting for weight loss products must also carry this qualification language: “Very limited” and There do not appear to be any significant side effects associated with dietary supplements containing phosphatidylserine, but owing to concerns about “mad cow disease,” it is generally recommended that patients select PS supplements derived from soybeans rather than those forms extracted from cow brains (bovine cortex). Soy-derived PS supplements are known to be well tolerated up to doses of 600 mg/day (Jorissen et al., 2002). Although concentrated PS supplements are available in doses of 50-100 mg/day, they are very expensive. For brain and mental support, 300-400 mg/day of PS is recommended for 1-6 months (Cenacchi et al., 1993; Delwaide et al., 1986; Engel et al., 1992; Maggioni et al., 1990). Athletes may need as much as 800 mg/day to help modulate corlisol levels associated with exercise stress cortisol secretion and to promote muscle recovery.

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