L-Serine

L-Serine is a non-essential amino acid that is manufactured from the amino acids threonine and glycine. Its conversion from glycine requires adequate B6 (pyridoxine) B3 (niacin) and folic acid. The critical enzyme necessary in the conversion is serine hydroxymethyl-transferase. Glycine is also a precursor to serine. L- serine is abbreviated as either Ser or by its one-letter abbreviation S. The molecular formula of L-serine is C3H7NO3, and its molecular weight is 105.09 daltons. A compound of the serine family known as phosphatidylserine is well known for its role in maintaining proper health. The conversion of serine to phosphatidylserine is dependent upon sufficient levels of folic acid and methionine in the brain. Folic acid is needed to increase the build-up of serine and methionine is needed to drive it into the cell membrane.

Function- Research has shown that by blocking serine metabolism may have beneficial effects for those suffering from psychosis and schizophrenic conditions if serine levels are elevated. Increasing levels of serine can help relieve depression that can accompany Alzheimer’s disease and many other forms of depression if serine levels are depleted.

Phosphatidylserine is found in very high levels in nerve cells and throughout the brain. It is particularly associated with the hippocampus which is known as a primary memory center. It is well documented that high doses of phosphatidylserine is beneficial for many suffering from senility and memory loss. It is a much better idea to be evaluated for amino acid need before this type of nerve damage occurs. Preventative medicine is always a better choice.

Cycloserine is an altered amino acid and antibiotic that is used to suppress the immune system with organ transplant procedures are performed. This has shown beneficial and has decreased the rate of rejection to these surgical procedures; however, cycloserine will have a negative effect on all other amino acid metabolism.

Deficiency- Medical literature does not specifically relate serine deficiency to any particular disease condition; however, a balance of all amino acids is necessary to maintain health. Any patient may need to be evaluated for any and all amino acid levels.

Sources- Serine can be found in meat products such as beef, pork, chicken, fish and others. It is also found in commonly allergic foods such as soy, peanuts, wheat gluten and dairy products. Food allergy reactions can manifest in any system of the body including the brain. Cerebral allergies cause the lining of the brain to swell and may result in headaches, mood disturbances, schizophrenic activity, attention deficit, anxiety and more.

Precautions- There is many great benefits associated with serine and its associated compounds, however, too high of serine in the body may have adverse effects and become neurotoxic. This is rare and can be easily avoidable with proper amino acid tests from a lab. A high serine to cysteine ratio (methionine converts to cysteine) has been linked to patients who suffer from psychosis.

Requirements- There is no Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) listed. Individual needs may differ due to clinical conditions, biochemical individuality and absorption. All sources of nutrients should be consumed in their most natural state, in the form of a variety of foods or supplements when necessary. Free form amino acid supplements are immediately absorbed by the body and should be consumed with natural occurring cofactors for best results. Consulting with a physician that is properly trained in the natural healing sciences and amino acid therapy may be needed for optimum results.

Written by Jerome Rerucha D.C.

References-
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