Complete clinical monograph for Phosphatidylserine (≥50% from Sunflower Lecithin) — the membrane phospholipid for cognitive function, memory support, and cortisol modulation
The brain’s own membrane molecule, now from sustainable sunflowers. Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a phospholipid found in every cell membrane in the human body, but is especially concentrated in the brain — where it comprises 15% of the total phospholipid pool. PS is not merely structural; it’s functional, playing critical roles in neurotransmitter release, synaptic plasticity, cell signaling, and glucose metabolism. As we age, brain PS levels decline, correlating with cognitive changes. Clinical research spanning 50+ studies has demonstrated that PS supplementation supports memory, attention, and cognitive function — earning it the only FDA-qualified health claim for cognitive decline risk reduction among nootropic ingredients. NTRPX sources PS from non-GMO European sunflower lecithin (≥50% active PS), providing an allergen-free, soy-free alternative that is chemically identical to traditional sources. In Boost and Sprint, MembraneMax Phosphatidylserine delivers the membrane support that keeps neurons communicating optimally.
Mechanism of Action
Phosphatidylserine works through multiple mechanisms rooted in its fundamental role as a membrane phospholipid:
PS is unique in carrying a negative charge that attracts signaling proteins to the membrane surface.
Why PS Matters: Unlike other nootropics that modulate neurotransmitter levels or receptor activity, PS works at the fundamental structural level — maintaining the membrane environment where all neural signaling occurs. This foundational role explains why PS benefits appear across multiple cognitive domains rather than targeting a single pathway.
Phosphatidylserine is the only cognitive ingredient with an FDA-qualified health claim:
“Phosphatidylserine may reduce the risk of cognitive dysfunction in the elderly. Very limited and preliminary scientific research suggests that phosphatidylserine may reduce the risk of cognitive dysfunction in the elderly. FDA concludes that there is little scientific evidence supporting this claim.”
While the FDA language is cautious, the existence of any qualified health claim for a nootropic ingredient is significant — PS has cleared a regulatory bar that no other cognitive supplement has.
MembraneMax Specification: NTRPX’s sunflower-derived PS (≥50% active) delivers therapeutic phosphatidylserine in an allergen-free, non-GMO, sustainable format. This matches the quality of market-leading Sharp-PS® GREEN while ensuring accessibility for those with soy allergies or GMO concerns.
Crook TH et al. Effects of phosphatidylserine in age-associated memory impairment. Neurology. 1991;41(5):644-9. PubMed
Kato-Kataoka A et al. Soybean-derived phosphatidylserine improves memory function. J Clin Biochem Nutr. 2010;47(3):246-55. PubMed
Stress/Cortisol:
Monteleone P et al. Blunting by chronic phosphatidylserine administration of the stress-induced activation of the HPA axis. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 1992;42(4):385-8. PubMed
Benton D et al. The influence of phosphatidylserine supplementation on mood and heart rate when faced with an acute stressor. Nutr Neurosci. 2001;4(3):169-78. PubMed
ADHD:
Hirayama S et al. The effect of phosphatidylserine administration on memory and symptoms of ADHD. J Hum Nutr Diet. 2014;27(Suppl 2):284-91. PubMed
Strong — 50+ clinical trials; FDA qualified health claim
Safety
Excellent — GRAS; well-tolerated long-term
Tier Rationale: Tier 1 (Foundation) classification. Phosphatidylserine is one of the most extensively researched nootropic ingredients, with 50+ clinical trials demonstrating benefits for memory, attention, and stress response. It holds the only FDA-qualified health claim for cognitive decline risk reduction among nootropic supplements. Mechanisms are well-understood (membrane structure, NT release, PKC activation, cortisol modulation). Sunflower-sourced PS (≥50%) provides an allergen-free, non-GMO format chemically identical to traditional sources. Safety is excellent with GRAS status and good tolerability across all studied populations. A true foundational compound for cognitive health.
Key understanding: PS is a building compound, not an acute booster. Benefits come from membrane incorporation over time, not immediate receptor effects.
PS doesn’t work like stimulants or acute nootropics. It becomes part of your cell membranes over weeks to months, gradually improving neuronal function. Think of it like improving the hardware, not running a software boost. Most people notice benefits after 6-12 weeks of consistent use.
Why sunflower instead of soy?
Sunflower-derived PS is chemically identical to soy PS, but offers advantages: it’s soy-free (important for allergies), non-GMO, and sustainably sourced from European sunflowers. Clinical effects are equivalent — it’s about accessibility and quality, not efficacy differences.
Should I take higher doses for better effects?
Research shows dose-response benefits up to 300 mg/day for most purposes, with higher doses (600-800 mg) used specifically for cortisol modulation in athletes. The 100-200 mg in NTRPX products is effective for general cognitive support, especially combined with other synergistic ingredients.
Can PS help with stress and anxiety?
PS modulates cortisol response, which can improve stress resilience. Studies show reduced perceived stress and blunted cortisol spikes. While not a primary anxiolytic, PS contributes to a calmer, more resilient stress response over time.
Is PS safe long-term?
Yes. PS has GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status, has been studied in trials up to 6 months, and has a long history of safe use. As a natural component of cell membranes, it’s well-tolerated. The main caution is for those on blood thinners.
How does PS differ from other nootropics?
Most nootropics target neurotransmitter systems (cholinergics, dopaminergics) or receptor activity. PS works at the structural level — optimizing the membranes where all signaling occurs. This foundational approach explains why PS benefits appear across multiple cognitive domains rather than targeting a single pathway.
Can I take PS with my other supplements?
PS combines well with most supplements. It’s particularly synergistic with DHA omega-3, choline sources (CDP-Choline, Alpha-GPC), and other nootropics. The only notable caution is with blood thinners — consult your healthcare provider if applicable.
MembraneMax Summary: Phosphatidylserine (≥50% from sunflower lecithin, 100mg in Boost and Sprint) is a phospholipid that supports cognitive function at the foundational membrane level. With 50+ clinical trials and the only FDA-qualified health claim for cognitive decline risk reduction, PS is one of the most validated nootropic ingredients available. Benefits include improved memory, better attention, and blunted cortisol response — all developing over weeks to months of consistent use. Sourced from non-GMO European sunflowers, MembraneMax PS delivers allergen-free, soy-free membrane support as part of the comprehensive NTRPX cognitive stack.
