Untitled

Abstract

OCH2CH2N(CH3) + PHOSPHORYLCHOLINE, 0= P-0 is a choline ester-OH which forms a part of the phosphatide molecule, and as such occurs in nearly all organs. It probably often exists in the free state, being liberated from the phosphatides by enzymic hydrolysis. An investigation of some of the chemical, biochemical, and physiological properties of phosphorylcholine was carried out in view of the physiological activity of many choline esters, especially acetylcholine, and their significance as chemical transmitters of nerve impulses. Synthesis: 2 Phosphorylcholine was synthesised from choline chloride and phosphorus pentoxide, the solvent being 100 per cent. phosphoric acid [phosphorylation method of Manaka, 1931]. 2*4 g. choline chloride, dried over phosphorus pentoxide, were dissolved in