Plant-derived choline: effects on digestive, liver and heart function in dogs

Choline is an essential nutrient involved in the structure and metabolism of phospholipids (phosphatidylcholine and lecithin), as well as a precursor of acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter. It also plays a crucial role in lipid metabolism, especially in the liver, as it is a lipotropic factor that prevents abnormal accumulation of fatty acids in liver tissue (hepatic steatosis). However, some of its properties, such as high hygroscopicity and corrosivity, limit its practical use. As a result, it is difficult to handle during the production of animal feeds or premixes. The plants Trachyspermum ammi, Citrullus colocynthis, Achyranth...