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Choline

Choline is the basic constituent of phospholipids of the photoglyceride type and is widely distributed in the plant and animal kingdoms. Choline is involved in metabolism and lipid transport and is a component of a number of important biological compounds including the membrane phospholipids like lecithin and sphingomyelin. Choline is the major precursor of betaine, and it is used by the kidneys to maintain water balance and by the liver as a source of methyl-groups for methionine formation. It is also used to produce the important neurotransmitter acetylcholine. It assists in nerve impulse transmission, gallbladder regulation, liver functions and lecithin production. Choline is a metabolite which contributes to the production of membranes via phosphatidylcholine. This metabolite also plays an important role in the cholinergic neurons where it participates in the synthesis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. In some cells, phosphatidylcholine may be produced by methylation of phosphatidylethanolamine, and in unicellular organisms, plants and animals, the free choline is absorbed as nutrient. Choline is also a precursor of acetylcholine, one of most important neurotransmitters. Choline acts as an important factor in biochemical processes, for example in methylations. Choline is principally used in the form of choline chloride or choline bitartrate in drug preparations for arterial calcification and liver parenchymal damage. In animal nutrition, choline chloride is an important feed additive. A deficiency of choline does not happen easily but if it is deficient it may lead to liver disease, raised cholesterol levels, high blood pressure as well as kidney problems. Choline deficiency may also manifest itself in the inability to digest fats, stunted growth and fatty buildup in the liver. Memory and brain function may also be impaired.

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