DMAE
DMAE (dimethylaminoethanol, Deanol), is chemical compound related to choline. It is a precursor to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, and found naturally in fish. It is reported to have nootropic effects, although research on this chemical has found both positive and negative potential results. It is believed that DMAE is methylated to choline in the brain. It is known that DMAE is processed by the liver into choline; however, the choline molecule is too large to easily pass the blood-brain barrier. Short term studies show an increase in vigilance and alertness, with a positive influence on mood. As for long term studies, the evidence seemed to differ. Some showed DMAE to increase the lifespan of animals in which it was tested, while others indicate a possible reduction in the life span of quail. With the uncertainty of whether this could be extrapolated to humans, DMAE supplementation is therefore still not generally recommended. It is possible dosage is a major factor as a determinant in DMAE's overall effects -- i.e., a high dosage could produce opposite effects than sought and contribute to life-shortening.
StudiesEarliest research:Pfeiffer C, et al. Stimulant effect of 2-dimethylaminoethanol; possible precursor of brain acetylcholine. Science 126(3274):610-611, 1957. [1] - Mood/vigilence
- :Dimpfel W, Wedekind W, Keplinger I. Efficacy of dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) containing vitamin-mineral drug combination on EEG patterns in the presence of different emotional states. European Journal Medical Research 8(5):183-191, 2003. [1]
- Lifespan
- :Cherkin A, Exkardt MJ. Effects of dimethylaminoethanol upon life-span and behavior of aged Japanese quail. Journal of Gerontology 32(1):38-45, 1977. [1]
- As a treatment for tardive dyskinesia
- :Haug BA, Holzgraefe M. Orofacial and respiratory tardive dyskinesia: potential side effects of 2-dimethylaminoethanol (deanol)? European Neurology 31(6):423–425, 1991. [1]
- As an unsuccessful treatment for Alzheimer's disease
- :Fisman M, Mersky H, Helmes E. Double-blind trial of 2-dimethylaminoethanol in Alzheimer's disease. American Journal of Psychiatry 138(7):970–972, 1981. [1]
- Precursor to choline
- :Zahniser NR, Chou D, Hanin I. Is 2-dimethylaminoethanol (deanol) indeed a precursor of brain acetylcholine? A gas chromatographic evaluation. Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics 200(3):545–559, 1977. [1]
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