Phosphatidylcholine (PC)
Overview
Phosphatidylcholine (PC) is a major phospholipid that is central to neuronal membrane structure and function. It plays a crucial role in membrane fluidity, neurotransmitter receptor function, and serves as a carrier for DHA and EPA. When DHA or EPA are incorporated into PC and converted to lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), they cross the blood-brain barrier far more efficiently than free fatty acid or triglyceride-bound forms. PC is also involved in acetylcholine synthesis pathways and is a key component of the phospholipid methylation process that influences ion channel behavior and gamma oscillations linked to attention and cognition. Food sources include eggs, fish roe, and liver, and choline intake supports PC synthesis.
Recipes
Foods
5 foods containing this substance
Eggs
Complete protein with choline, B vitamins, and phospholipids
Fish Roe
General category of fish eggs providing phospholipid-bound omega-3s
Salmon Roe
Phospholipid-bound omega-3s with superior brain bioavailability
Soy Lecithin
Concentrated choline source for phosphatidylcholine synthesis
Sunflower Lecithin
Choline source alternative to soy lecithin
Biological Mechanisms and Implications
| Biological Target | Therapeutic Areas | Mechanism of Action |
|---|---|---|
| Neurochemical Balance | Major neuronal membrane phospholipid central to membrane fluidity, receptor function, and acetylcholine synthesis; DHA/EPA incorporated into PC are converted to lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), a key transport form across the BBB |
References
- DHA or EPA incorporated into PC and converted into lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) crosses the blood-brain barrier far more efficiently than free fatty acid or triglyceride-bound forms Patrick 2019
- Phospholipid-bound omega-3s (krill oil, fish roe) were approximately 1.9× more efficacious for gray matter DHA in porcine models Liu et al. 2014
- Food sources supporting PC: eggs, fish roe, liver; choline intake supports PC synthesis