Choline

Choline is a water-soluble quaternary ammonium compound (C₅H₁₄NO⁺) and is classified as an essential nutrient for humans and animals[1][7][9][10]. It is required for the synthesis of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is essential for muscle control, memory, and many brain functions[2][4][10]. Choline also serves as a precursor for phospholipids such as phosphatidylcholine and sphingomyelin, important for cell membranes[1][9]. It provides methyl groups needed in homocysteine metabolism, influencing cardiovascular health[10]. Humans synthesize choline in the liver, but dietary sources are needed to meet requirements; foods rich in choline include meats, eggs, dairy, and some plant-based sources[1][10]. While choline itself is a nutrient, clinical and pharmacological targeting typically involves its derivatives or associated metabolic and transport proteins, not choline as a molecular receptor or enzyme[1][10]. If you intended to ask about a true therapeutic target—such as the "choline transporter," "choline acetyltransferase," or "acetylcholine receptor"—please specify, as these are distinct molecular entities with drug relevance.

Other names

(2-hydroxyethyl)trimethylammoniumcholinium(β-hydroxyethyl)trimethylammoniumbilineurinbiocolinecholine hydrochloridecholesteroletc.

As a supplement: Nutrient replacement, restoring precursor pools for acetylcholine and membrane phospholipids[10] Indirectly: Choline is taken up into neurons and acetylated to make acetylcholine, which then acts at muscarinic and nicotinic receptors[2][4][8]