Jarrow Formulations Alpha GPC ((L-alphaglycerylphosphorylcholine, also known as choline alfoscerate) is a phospholipid metabolite found concentrated in neuronal membranes. Made from lecithin, Alpha GPC is extremely well absorbed and crosses the blood brain barrier.
In the brain, Alpha GPC supports brain function and learning processes by directly increasing the synthesis and secretion of acetylcholine. Alpha GPC protects neurons and improves signal transmission by serving as a precursor to membrane phospholipids.
Alpha GPC is used as a tool to help stall the progression of cognitive decline
Functions in the Body
Acetylcholine
Alpha-GPC is a precursor of acetylcholine and administration of alpha-GPC has been shown to increase the synthesis and release of acetylcholine from the hippocampus.(3)
Choline
Alpha-GPC is a source of choline, which can be used in the body for the production of phosphatidylcholine and acetylcholine.(4)
GABAnergic neuronal system
There is some indication that alpha-GPC may also play a role in the activation of the GABAnergic neuronal system. In animal studies, administration of alpha-GPC caused increased GABA release.
Human growth hormone
Administration of alpha-GPC results in small increases in human growth hormone (hGH) and a potentiation of the effects of growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH) in both young and elderly individuals, with effects in the elderly being more pronounced.
Alpha-GPC, which is also known as L-alpha glycerylphosphorylcholine and choline alfoscerate, is an intermediate in phospholipid metabolism that naturally occurs in humans. Structurally, it is made up of choline, glycerol, and phosphate. It is a primary storage form of choline and occurs in cells throughout the human body. In addition to being a recognized source of choline, it can stimulate the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine and the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
Numerous studies report that its ability to increase the synthesis and release of acetylcholine make it a promising candidate as a cognitive enhancing agent in the treatment of the elderly as well as patients with senility and Alzheimer’s disease.
Alpha-GPC is a product of catabolic phospholipid degradation as well as a precursor for the production of phospholipids. Thus, alpha-GPC plays a key role in both the synthesis and the catabolic recycling of phospholipids.
Alpha-GPC has also been shown to be a natural human growth hormone (hGH) secretagogue. Studies report that it increases growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH)-induced secretion of human growth hormone (hGH) in both normal elderly and young subjects as well as in elderly patients with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Because alpha-GPC influences phospholipid metabolism, the production of acetylcholine, and human growth hormone secretion, researchers are suggesting that it may be therapeutically useful in a wide range of conditions related to aging, long-term stress, chronic or acute disease states, and various anti-aging applications.
Cognitive decline is an issue many will face with advancing age. In fact, many people, as early as in their late 30s, start to detect short-term memory loss. The brain relies on certain compounds to maintain neuronal function and structure.
L-alpha glycerylphosphorylcholine (GPC) readily converts to acetylcholine in the brain. GPC also helps maintain neuronal structural integrity. Found in the brain and peripheral nervous system, acetylcholine is a messenger molecule that plays an important role in memory, learning, and attention.
Each Jarrow Formulas® Alpha GPC 250 liquid-filled capsule contains 300 mg of elemental Alpha GPC.