Biochemical role of Phosphatidylcholine in acetylcholine synthesis and neuronal membrane integrity: A review study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Background: Phosphatidylcholine (PC) is the most common phospholipid in the neuronal membrane and has a double role of maintaining the membrane structure and supplying choline to acetylcholine (ACh) production. Aims: To summarize the biological synthesis between the PC metabolism and the ACh synthesis. Methodology: Analytical review of the recent literature comprising of cellular and synaptosomal studies, animal models and clinical evidence was done to uncover the enzyme pathway and control in the release and use of choline in ACh synthesis. Results: It has been demonstrated that phospholipase D (PLD) liberates choline out of PC to aid the production of ACh, especially in the case of exogenous choline deficiency, and PLD1 and PLD2 isoforms assume different roles in the regulation of this process. It has been demonstrated that membrane PC depletion causes membrane structural changes, such as membrane fluidity and protein activity alteration, which harm cell survival and growth. The balance of PC release of ACh holds the adequate levels without damaging the membrane, and that imbalance of the balance between choline release and renewal caused by lack of choline or high demand relates to the impaired neuronal functionality. In addition, therapeutic potential has been indicated by dietary interventions or cytokinin (CDP-choline) that do raise PC and ACh levels and preserve the neuronal membrane. Conclusion: The PC balance between neuronal membrane and ACh synthesis is fundamental to the functioning of cholinergic neurons and derailment of this balance can be a cause of neurodegenerative conditions, which is why choline and phospholipid treatments of the neurons can help preserve neurons.
Author: Suaad Muhammed Abd-Alqader
Institution: University of Basrah
Language: English
Subfield: Biochemistry
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7127052068