glycerophosphocholine

Glycerophosphocholine (GPC) is a glycerophospholipid-derived molecule that contains a glycerol backbone linked to a phosphate group and a choline head group. In biochemical terms, it is a glycerophosphodiester formed when phosphatidylcholine or related phospholipids are hydrolyzed, and it serves as a water-soluble metabolite of choline.

In cellular metabolism, GPC is produced during the turnover of membrane phospholipids. It can be generated by phospholipase activity and subsequently degraded by glycerophosphodiesterases to yield choline and glycerol-3-phosphate. The choline released from GPC can be recycled for acetylcholine synthesis, phosphatidylcholine production, and other choline-dependent pathways, while glycerol-3-phosphate enters glycerolipid and glycolytic metabolism.

GPC also appears as a dietary supplement and pharmaceutical compound under the name choline alfoscerate. In some countries it is marketed for cognitive support and treatment of certain neurological disorders, particularly where age-related or degenerative cognitive decline is involved. It is thought to act as a brain-penetrant source of choline, potentially supporting acetylcholine synthesis and membrane lipid turnover, though clinical evidence for broad cognitive benefit is variable.

In humans, GPC is present in tissues and biological fluids as part of normal phospholipid metabolism. It is considered relatively safe at standard supplement doses, but efficacy claims for cognitive enhancement vary by study and condition. Research continues into its pharmacokinetics, mechanisms of action, and potential therapeutic applications.