Choline

Choline is a dietary component of many foods and is a component of several major phospholipids that are critical for normal cellular membrane structure and function.

Description:

Choline is a dietary component of many foods and is a component of several major phospholipids that are critical for normal cellular membrane structure and function.

Function:

Choline contributes to the structure of the cellular membrane bilayer and also serves as important secondary messengers in signal cascades that control cell growth and gene expression. It is also integrated into the composition of the lung surfactant which is important for respiratory function.

Sources:

Food, endogenous synthesis from methionine.

Requirements:

No studies have been conducted to establish the requirements of the horse for choline.

Deficiency:

Not reported.

Excess:

Not reported.

When problems may occur?

Deficiency of the surfactant in the neonate foal leads to respiratory distress syndrome.