Lysophosphatidylcholine

Fatty-acidPhospholipid

What is it

Lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) is a phospholipid produced when phosphatidylcholine loses one fatty acid chain. It serves as both a structural membrane component and a signaling molecule in the body. Dietary sources include egg yolk and soy lecithin.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

DHA delivery (LPC-DHA forms)

Limited Evidence

LPC-bound DHA crosses the blood-brain barrier more efficiently than triglyceride-bound DHA, with research interest for neurological applications.

How it works

LPC acts on specific G-protein-coupled receptors (GPR4, G2A, GPR119) influencing inflammation, vascular function, and immune cell behavior. It also serves as a carrier for delivery of polyunsaturated fatty acids (including DHA) across the blood-brain barrier. In the body, LPC is generated endogenously by phospholipase A2 activity on phosphatidylcholine. High local concentrations can have detergent-like cytotoxic effects, while lower physiological concentrations serve regulatory roles.

Dosage

No established standalone supplement RDA. Dietary phospholipid intake (mostly as phosphatidylcholine in lecithin) is typically 1-3 g/day.

When and how to take it

Not commonly used as standalone supplement.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

LPC-DHA (krill oil contains)

Found naturally in some marine phospholipid sources.

Enhanced brain DHA delivery

Isolated LPC

Not common consumer supplement.

Research use

Safety

Dietary phospholipid intake is generally safe. Isolated LPC at high concentrations has shown both beneficial (DHA delivery) and potentially harmful (pro-inflammatory) effects in research contexts.

Who should be cautious

Not associated with population-specific concerns at dietary levels.

Interactions

No significant interactions reported at dietary intake levels.

Food sources

Egg yolk

Amount
Variable
%DV
—

Krill oil

Amount
Variable LPC-DHA
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is LPC found in krill oil?⌄

Yes, krill oil naturally contains LPC-bound DHA and EPA, which may have enhanced brain delivery.

Should I supplement lysophosphatidylcholine directly?⌄

Direct LPC supplementation is uncommon. Whole-food phospholipid sources are more practical.

References

Lysophosphatidylcholine on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Lysophosphatidylcholine (ChEBI:60479) — ChEBI link

Lysophosphatidylcholine on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Lysophosphatidylcholine (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Lysophosphatidylcholine with Pilora

Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.

Coming to App Store
Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.