spermidine

Spermidine is a naturally occurring polyamine compound found in ribosomes and living tissues. It is synthesized from putrescine and serves as a precursor to other polyamines such as spermine and thermospermine[4]. Spermidine plays essential roles in cellular metabolism, including stabilizing nucleic acids and membranes. Its primary mechanism of action involves the induction of autophagy through inhibition of acetyltransferase EP300 (also known as p300), which leads to increased autophagic flux—a process important for cellular homeostasis and longevity[6][7][8]. Spermidine also modulates cell growth, proliferation, apoptosis, inflammation reduction, lipid metabolism regulation, membrane potential maintenance (via effects on Ca2+, Na+, K+-ATPases), NMDA receptor-mediated signaling pathways in neurons (affecting nitric oxide synthase activity), and RNA transcription processes[4][8]. It has been studied for its potential anti-aging properties—acting as a caloric restriction mimetic—and shows promise in reducing the incidence or progression of age-related diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, neurodegeneration[3][7], and possibly promoting hair growth. While not approved as a pharmaceutical drug for any indication to date[1], it is under investigation primarily for its geroprotective effects.

Other names

1,8-diamino-4-azaoctanetriamine1,5,10-triaza derivative of decane