Choline Requirements and Role in Brain Development

Choline: Dietary Requirements and Role in Brain Development
Lisa M. Sanders PhD, R.D., and Steven H. Zeisel MD, PhD

Choline is needed for the maintenance of the structural integrity and signaling functions of cell membranes, for neurotransmission, and for transport of lipids and as a source of methyl groups...choline deficiency can cause disorders in many bodily systems, including liver, muscle, and lymphocytes in humans and, additionally, the kidney, pancreas, and developing brain and nervous system in animals.

full article:
http://www.nursingcenter.com/prodev/ce_article.asp?tid=741214#15

Only a small amount of dietary choline is metabolized to form acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter frequently used by the nerves controlling breathing, heart rate, and skeletal muscles. Acetylcholine is also important in the portions of the brain responsible for memory and mood.

Zeisel SH. Choline and brain development. In: Bowman BR, Russell RM, eds. Present Knowledge in Nutrition Vol 1 . 9th ed. Washington, DC: ILSI Press; 2006:352-360.

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Steven Zeisel, MD., Ph.D. Professor and Chair, Department of Nutrition Professor, Department of Pediatrics, University of North Carolina

Dr. Zeisel's research focuses on nutrient metabolism, with special emphasis on establishing human nutrient requirements and on identifying cancer-causing agents which are produced within our bodies. His work has focused on the nutrient choline as it relates to: a) transmembrane signal transduction (diacylglycerol and protein kinase) and carcinogenesis in liver, b) perinatal brain development, c) human nutrient requirements, and d) choline and secretion of components of milk by isolated mammary epithelial cells.

for more information on Dr. Zeisel's research: http://www2.sph.unc.edu/DietCancer/faculty/zeisel.htm