Plasmalogens

[RedFox]

I wanted to start a thread on plasmalogens, as they are particularly interesting when it comes to both general health and specific health conditions. They have been mentioned in this thread: Health Protocol for Mandatory Coronavirus Vaccination
It should also be noted that the natural production of them declines with age, may be reduced in some due to genetic conditions, and can (most promisingly) hold off things like dementia/Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.

Here's an AI overview to start with - although it doesn't cover some of the more interesting aspects. For those who have an understanding of biology the parts I've highlighted should stand out:

Plasmalogens are a subclass of phospholipids found in cell membranes, characterized by a vinyl ether bond at the sn-1 position of the glycerol backbone. They are particularly abundant in certain tissues like the brain, heart, and kidneys. Plasmalogens play roles in membrane integrity, signaling, and protecting against oxidative stress.

Key Characteristics:

• Vinyl Ether Bond:
  The defining feature of plasmalogens is a vinyl ether bond at the sn-1 position of the glycerol backbone, unlike conventional phospholipids which have acyl bonds in that position.
  
  
• • Broad Distribution:
    Plasmalogens are found in various organisms, including bacteria, protozoa, invertebrates, and vertebrates. They are particularly abundant in anaerobic bacteria and certain mammalian tissues.
    
  • Membrane Component:
    They are a significant component of cell membranes, contributing to their structure and function.
    
  • Antioxidant Properties:
    Plasmalogens have been shown to protect cells from damage caused by reactive oxygen species and may play a role in protecting other lipids and lipoproteins from oxidative stress.
    
  • Signaling and Membrane Dynamics:
    They have been implicated in cellular signaling pathways and modulating membrane dynamics.
    
  • Association with Disease:
    Research suggests that plasmalogen levels may be associated with various diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders, and that their deficiency can contribute to certain metabolic and inflammatory conditions.
    

Biological Functions:

• • Membrane Integrity:
    Plasmalogens contribute to the structure and stability of cell membranes.
    
  • Oxidative Stress Protection:
    They can protect cells from damage caused by reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress.
    
  • Signaling and Membrane Dynamics:
    They may be involved in signaling pathways and modulating membrane fluidity.
    
  • Potential Therapeutic Target:
    Research suggests that plasmalogens may have therapeutic potential for certain diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders.
    

Clinical Significance:

• • Deficiency in Peroxisomal Disorders:
    Deficiency of plasmalogens can occur in peroxisomal disorders like Zellweger syndrome and Rhizomelic chondrodysplasia punctata.
    
  • Association with Alzheimer's Disease:
    Some studies suggest that lower plasmalogen levels in the brain may be associated with Alzheimer's disease, and that plasmalogen supplementation may have some cognitive benefits.
    
  • Potential Therapeutic Use:
    Oral administration of plasmalogens has been proposed as a potential treatment for certain diseases, including Alzheimer's disease.

Before getting into the details, I've been taking plasmalogens (specifically Mind+ as they are liposomal, and digestion will otherwise break them down) as both a general experiment (and because dementia runs in my family) for over a month now.
My observations are as follows:

• Dreams that indicate higher melatonin (or being more sensitive to melatonin).
• Not smoking as much which would indicate higher acetylcholine (or more sensitivity to acetylcholine).
• More mood stabilisation during the day and night - specifically not rushing into fight/flight in nightmares (so maybe serotonin? and/or better vagal control, so acetylcholine).
• A change in dream 'flavour' (which I didn't get with just melatonin when I took that some time ago) - dreams are in more green/outdoor locations/more expansive as well as being more vivid.
• Apparently a small loss of visceral body fat (according to my scales which measure that)/reduced belly size.
• At the gym I've noticed quite a large improvement in aerobic capacity.

I've added this to my basic stack of butyrate, carnosine, lactoferrin and a B complex. I added in a bit more B1 (in the for of TTFD) about 2 weeks in, as it also has been shown to help with cognitive issues - this is when I noticed the more pronounced effects listed above. TTFD on it's own or in combination with other supplements has not done this.
I suspect that the improvement to cellular membranes has allowed the TTFD to transfer to cells more easily and improved it's effectiveness/potential.
Better communication and transport of molecules in/out of cells is going to have a profound impact in all aspects of health.

So after observing all that I've dug into some of the data. First an overview of some of the more interesting scientific studies:

AI summary:

Plasmalogen Webinar Summary​

Introduction to Plasmalogens​

Plasmalogens are essential but little-known cellular building blocks crucial for health. They play a fundamental role in maintaining healthy cells, which underpin the entire body’s function. Cells contain organelles like peroxisomes and mitochondria for processing materials, and their membranes—composed of fats and proteins—regulate cellular entry and exit. Healthy cell membranes ensure overall cell health, underscoring plasmalogens’ importance in brain, nerve, heart, kidney, and eye function. Plasmalogen levels decline with age due to reduced peroxisome activity.

Role in Brain Health and Neurological Protection​

Plasmalogens are vital for brain function, especially in protecting white and gray matter. Experimental models mimicking multiple sclerosis (via cuprizone) and Parkinson’s disease (via MPTP) demonstrate that plasmalogen supplementation prevents damage and aids recovery. This highlights their protective role against neurodegeneration. Cognitive diseases such as Alzheimer’s dementia are associated with plasmalogen deficiency, with studies indicating boosting plasmalogen reserves could reduce Alzheimer’s incidence by 75%. Plasmalogens modulate immune and inflammatory responses within the brain, particularly calming microglial activation.

Alzheimer’s Disease and Genetic Factors​

Alzheimer’s dementia risk is heavily influenced by genetic factors (e.g., APOE4 genotype), but plasmalogen levels profoundly modify disease progression. Research shows that maintaining or increasing phospholipid and plasmalogen levels can prevent or delay cognitive decline, demonstrating a causative link between deficiency and dementia. Plasmalogens derived from different fatty acids (including DHA and EPA) affect brain health differently, emphasizing the importance of both precursor availability and cellular conversion mechanisms.

Cholesterol and Cardiovascular Implications​

Plasmalogens influence cholesterol metabolism by enhancing cholesterol export from cells, thus lowering circulating cholesterol and plaque build-up. Studies from institutions like the Baker Institute show plasmalogen supplementation dramatically reduces cholesterol plaques, which were long considered irreversible. Plasmalogens’ impact extends to metabolic conditions such as fatty liver disease, with ongoing research focused on reversal using plasmalogen therapy.

Supplementation Challenges and Strategies​

Dietary plasmalogen consumption is inefficient because the stomach digests them readily. The only known natural source with effective plasmalogen content is shark liver oil, which is not widely recommended. Instead, synthetic or bioavailable plasmalogen-boosting supplements can elevate blood and membrane plasmalogen levels effectively. Clinical trials in Alzheimer’s patients show cognitive and mobility improvements after several months of supplementation, supporting the potential for therapeutic use. Optimal strategies involve an initial loading phase at higher doses followed by maintenance dosing.

Cell Membrane Structure and Function​

Plasmalogens contain a unique vinyl ether bond that contributes to cell membrane fluidity and elasticity, critical for regulating molecular traffic and protecting membrane fats from oxidative damage. This membrane flexibility facilitates neurotransmitter release, notably acetylcholine, essential for memory and cognitive function. Deficiency in plasmalogens leads to rigid membranes, impaired neurotransmitter transmission, and cognitive deficits consistent with dementia.

Human Studies on Cognitive Decline and Longevity​

Longitudinal human research confirms that higher plasmalogen (particularly DHA-derived) levels correlate with preserved cognition before death and reduced Alzheimer’s pathology post-mortem. The composition of the cell membrane influences amyloid precursor protein processing—flexible membranes favor protective pathways, whereas rigid, cholesterol-rich membranes promote amyloid plaque formation. Moreover, plasmalogen status strongly predicts dementia risk and overall mortality, with high levels associated with enhanced longevity and lower disease risk.
[note here, that this also included reduced all cause mortality/improved longevity in general]

Gut Microbiome and Additional Biomarkers​

Plasmalogen metabolism interacts with gut-derived molecules such as gastrointestinal tract acids (GTAs), which reflect mitochondrial health and inflammation. Good microbiome profiles generate beneficial polyunsaturated fatty acids to support plasmalogen synthesis and healthy aging. GTAs may also serve as markers for bowel cancer risk and neurological disease progression, indicating a broader role for plasmalogen-related pathways.

Clinical Applications and Case Studies​

Plasmalogen-boosting supplements have practical applications in reducing cholesterol, improving neurocognitive conditions, and potentially alleviating symptoms in neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis, autism spectrum disorders, and Alzheimer’s disease. Anecdotal reports demonstrate remarkable patient improvements, including restored mobility and cognitive functions. Ongoing webinars and global physician collaborations highlight the emerging clinical utility of plasmalogens.

Conclusion and Further Resources​

Plasmalogen science, although discovered decades ago, has only recently yielded practical insights into measurement, supplementation, and therapeutic use. The ability to measure plasmalogen levels and modify them presents a novel frontier in preventive and regenerative medicine. For those wishing to explore the topic more deeply, extensive lecture series and research resources by experts like Professor Gooden provide comprehensive scientific background and clinical perspectives.

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Overall Summary:
Plasmalogens are critical lipid components of cell membranes that uphold cellular and neurological health, regulate cholesterol metabolism, and influence aging and longevity. Their decline with age and in disease states like Alzheimer’s dementia makes them a promising target for therapeutic intervention. Supplementation strategies to restore plasmalogen levels may drastically reduce dementia incidence, improve cognitive function, and extend healthy lifespan. Advances in testing and clinical application are rapidly evolving, creating new opportunities to address multiple chronic health challenges by targeting cellular membrane composition directly.

That the synapses of the brain need flexible cellular membranes (characterised by enough plasmalogens) in order to properly release acetylcholine is of interest. It would suggest that this could be linked to other learning and memory disorders. And perhaps a similar mechanism for other neurotransmitters and hormones in general.

As well as cellular membranes, plasmalogens seem to protect mitochondrial membrane fluidity as well.

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S138819812030069X

In Barth syndrome (BTHS) mutations in tafazzin leads to changes in both the quantities and the molecular species of cardiolipin (CL), which are the hallmarks of BTHS. Contrary to the well-established alterations in CL associated with BTHS; recently a marked decrease in the plasmalogen levels in Barth specimens has been identified. To restore the plasmalogen levels, the present study reports the effect of promotion of plasmalogen biosynthesis on the lipidome of lymphoblasts derived from Barth patients as well as on cell viability, mitochondria biogenesis, and mitochondrial membrane potential. High resolution 31P NMR phospholipidomic analysis showed an increase in the levels of plasmenylethanolamine (the major plasmalogen in lymphoblasts), which reached values comparable to the control and a compensatory decrease in the levels of its diacyl-PE counterpart. Importantly, 31P NMR showed a significant increase in the levels of CL, while not altering the levels of monolysocardiolipin. Mass spectrometry measurements showed that the promotion of plasmalogen biosynthesis did not change the molecular species profile of targeted phospholipids. In addition, promotion of plasmalogen biosynthesis did not impact on cellular viability, although it significantly decrease mitochondria copy number and restored mitochondrial membrane potential. Overall, the results showed the efficacy of the promotion of plasmalogen biosynthesis on increasing the CL levels in a BTHS cell model and highlight the potential beneficial effect of a diet supplemented with plasmalogen precursors to BTHS patients.

A very detailed summary from Oct 2021 on plasmalogens covering most known pathologies is available here:

Frontiers | Plasmalogens and Chronic Inflammatory Diseases

It is becoming widely acknowledged that lipids play key roles in cellular function, regulating a variety of biological processes. Lately, a subclass of glyce...

www.frontiersin.org

 

[EmeraldR]

I hope some cheaper prices for this supplement will become available
its difficult to source it easily in europe for a reasonable price !


While plasmalogen supplements are a direct way to increase plasmalogen levels, certain foods naturally contain plasmalogens or their precursors. Here are some dietary sources that can help boost your plasmalogen intake:

Foods Rich in Plasmalogens or Their Precursors​

1. Cold-Water Fish:
   
   • Salmon
   • Mackerel
   • Sardines
   • Herring
   • Tuna
   • Cold-water fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are important precursors for plasmalogen synthesis.
2. Organ Meats:
   
   • Beef Liver
   • Chicken Liver
   • Beef Heart
   • Organ meats are particularly high in plasmalogens and other essential nutrients like iron, vitamin B12, and choline.
3. Eggs:
   
   • Whole Eggs: Especially the yolks, which contain choline, an important nutrient for plasmalogen synthesis.
4. Nuts and Seeds:
   
   • Flaxseeds
   • Chia Seeds
   • Walnuts
   • Almonds
   • These nuts and seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and other healthy fats that can support plasmalogen production.
5. Plant Oils:
   
   • Olive Oil
   • Avocado Oil
   • Flaxseed Oil
   • Canola Oil
   • These oils contain monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can contribute to the synthesis of plasmalogens.
6. Leafy Green Vegetables:
   
   • Spinach
   • Kale
   • Broccoli
   • These vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals that support overall health and can indirectly support plasmalogen synthesis.
7. Fruits:
   
   • Berries (e.g., blueberries, strawberries)
   • Avocados
   • Berries are rich in antioxidants, and avocados provide healthy fats that can support plasmalogen synthesis.

Additional Considerations​

1. Dietary Balance:
   
   • Ensure a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods to provide all the necessary nutrients for plasmalogen synthesis.
2. Supplementation:
   
   • If you find it difficult to get enough plasmalogen precursors through diet alone, consider supplements. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine the right type and dosage for your needs.
3. Cooking Methods:
   
   • Some cooking methods can degrade the beneficial components of foods. Try to include raw or minimally processed versions of these foods in your diet when possible.
4. Consistency:
   
   • Consistent intake of these foods over time can help maintain optimal plasmalogen levels.

By incorporating these foods into your diet, you can support the natural production of plasmalogens and potentially reap the associated health benefits.

Foods highest in plasmalogen content include:

• Scallop: While it contains a relatively low amount of plasmalogens compared to other seafoods, scallop-derived plasmalogen is particularly beneficial due to its structural similarity to human plasmalogens and its enrichment with DHA and EPA.2
• Squid: Among mollusks, squid has the highest plasmalogen content, with approximately 384.76 ± 48.29 nmol/g.4
• Shrimp: Shrimp contains a significant amount of plasmalogens, with about 239.77 ± 48.39 nmol/g.4
• Octopus: Octopus has a plasmalogen content of around 208.88 ± 32.25 nmol/g.4
• Moose Meat: Moose meat is rich in plasmalogens, particularly in plasmalogen phosphatidylethanolamine (pPE) at 61% and lyso-plasmalogen pLPE at 417 ± 55 μg/g.35
• Caribou Meat: Caribou meat is another excellent source, with high levels of plasmalogen phosphatidylcholine (pPC) at 59%.35
• Blue Mussel: Marine invertebrates like blue mussels have high plasmalogen content, with over 200 μmol/100 g wet weight.5
• Ascidian Viscera: Ascidians, or sea squirts, have some of the highest plasmalogen content, particularly in their viscera, with 18/20 and 18/22 at 86 and 68 μmol/100 g wet weight, respectively.