Alpha-GPC (L-Alpha-Glycerylphosphorylcholine)

Alpha‑GPC (L‑Alpha‑Glycerylphosphorylcholine) is a naturally occurring choline compound that readily crosses the blood‑brain barrier. It serves as a highly bioavailable source of choline, a precursor for the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, and is primarily used as a dietary supplement to support cognitive performance and support neuromuscular function.

• Alpha‑GPC is a quaternary ammonium compound with the molecular formula C₈H₂₀NO₆P.
• Its IUPAC name is (2‑hydroxy‑3‑(phosphoryl)‑propyl)‑trimethyl‑ammonium.
• The structure consists of:
  • A glycerol backbone esterified to a phosphoric acid moiety at the 3‑position
  • A choline (trimethyl‑ammonium) group at the 2‑position, forming a zwitterionic, water‑soluble molecule.
• Its molecular weight is 257.24 g/mol.
• It has a pKa of ~3.6 (phosphate) and a permanent positive charge on the nitrogen, giving it high solubility in aqueous media.
• The compound is stable at pH 3–8 and is typically supplied as a white, crystalline powder.

• Alpha‑GPC is naturally present in small amounts in dairy, eggs, and soy, but commercial supplements are predominantly produced via enzymatic or chemical synthesis from choline‑bitartrate and glycerophosphate.
• The most common method uses a phosphocholine‑hydrolyzing enzyme (phospholipase D) to link choline to glycerol‑3‑phosphate, yielding a highly pure (>98 %) product.
• Natural‑source extracts are rare, so most commercial preparations are chemically synthesized and meet USP or GMP standards.
• Quality‑focused manufacturers provide certificates of analysis (COA) confirming identity, purity, and absence of heavy metals or residual solvents.
• For optimal bioavailability, a moisture‑free, sealed capsule or powder is recommended.