Support for Phosphatidylserine Memory Claims

31/03/06 Degussa Food Ingredients has announced the successful completion of an animal trial reconfirming the effectiveness of its Leci-PS brand Phosphatidylserine to improve short- and long-term memory in aging animals.

The placebo-controlled study conducted at Thuris Corporation, California, USA, investigated in addition the mode-of-action of Leci-PS using Thuris' proprietary BrainPrint technology. The BrainPrints revealed that oral Leci- PS supplementation significantly reduces the activity of inhibitory brain center PVH (paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus). PVH signaling has been shown by scientists to modulate memory. Increased learning and memory is associated with a decreased PVH activity. "For the first time we are really able to understand how the molecular effects of Leci-PS translate into specific improvements of brain activity" said Dr. Roland Rabeler, R&D Manager with Degussa Food Ingredients.

Recent studies proved that Leci-PS is a highly effective nutrient to improve brain functions that tend to decline with age and to beneficially influence Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder as well as improving performance under physical or mental stress. "The Brain Print technology is a powerful tool to understand the mode-of-action of Leci-PS in different applications and allows the targeted development of Leci-PS based products" added Dr. Ralf Jäger, Manager Strategic Projects with Degussa Food Ingredients.

A paper on the study results on the mode-of-action and effectiveness of Leci-PS will be submitted to a peer-reviewed scientific journal within the next few months.