Synonyms/Common Names/Related Substances:
- BC-PS, bovine cortex, cephalin, egg phosphatidylserine, egg-PS, E-PS, kephalin, phos serine, PS, soybean phosphatidylserine, soybean-PS, S-PS.
Clinical Bottom Line/Effectiveness
Brief Background:
- Phosphatidylserine (PS) is normally present on the inner surface of the cell membrane; it is the major acidic phospholipid in the brain (1;2;3). PS is a vital component of cell membranes and is essential for cell-to-cell communication and cellular metabolism; thus, this compound is of extreme importance for cell membrane function and integrity (4).
- When apoptotic cell death (a programmed process of cell death) occurs, PS becomes exposed on the surface of the cell (5;6;7;8;9;10;11;12;13;14).
- PS is also abundant in the liver and kidneys; however, it is present in lesser amounts in muscle tissue. Based on secondary sources, dairy products and vegetables contain trace amounts of PS, with the exception of white beans. PS is most commonly used for the treatment of central nervous system disorders. It is commonly used to treat cognitive disorders ranging from age-associated memory impairment (AAMI) to Alzheimer's disease.
- Current evidence suggests that PS may benefit AAMI to a greater degree than it does Alzheimer's disease (15;16). It has also been reported to blunt the cortisol response from exercise-induced stress (17). However, there is a lack of strong evidence for clinical use of PS for any indication.
- Further content available for subscribers only.
Dosing/Toxicology
- Content available for subscribers only.
Precautions/Contraindications
- Content available for subscribers only.
Interactions
Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.
- Content available for subscribers only.
Mechanism of Action
- Content available for subscribers only.
History
- Content available for subscribers only.
Evidence Table
- Content available for subscribers only.
Evidence Discussion
- Content available for subscribers only.
Products Studied
- Content available for subscribers only.
Author Information
- Content available for subscribers only.
References
Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.
- Content available for subscribers only.