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Spermidine

Anti-Aging & Longevity
N-(3-Aminopropyl)-1,4-butanediamine

Overview

Spermidine, also known as N-(3-Aminopropyl)-1,4-butanediamine, is a naturally occurring polyamine compound found in ribosomes and living tissues. It was first isolated from semen, which is reflected in its name. Structurally, spermidine is a linear molecule with three amine groups, contributing to its polycationic nature at physiological pH. It can be synthesized through the decarboxylation of S-adenosylmethionine, which is catalyzed by the enzyme spermidine synthase. Researchers have extensively studied spermidine for its potential role in promoting cellular longevity and health. It has been observed to induce autophagy, a cellular process that removes damaged organelles and proteins, thereby contributing to cellular maintenance and longevity. Studies have also suggested its involvement in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which are key factors in aging and age-related diseases. The mechanism of action of spermidine primarily involves the induction of autophagy through the inhibition of acetyltransferases, leading to the deacetylation of key autophagy-related proteins. This process is crucial for the maintenance of cellular homeostasis and has been linked to increased lifespan in various model organisms. Pharmacokinetic data on spermidine is limited, but it is known to have poor oral bioavailability due to its polycationic nature, which affects its absorption. Its stability and half-life in various administration routes remain largely unexplored. Current research on spermidine is focused on its potential therapeutic applications in aging and neurodegenerative diseases. It is not approved as a medicinal product by major regulatory agencies, and its use is primarily confined to research settings. Regulatory standing varies by country, and it is not classified as a controlled substance.

Mechanism of Action

Spermidine acts by inducing autophagy, a cellular degradation process, through the inhibition of acetyltransferases, which leads to the deacetylation of autophagy-related proteins. This action helps maintain cellular homeostasis and has been linked to increased longevity.

Molecular Data

FormulaC7H19N3
Molecular Weight145.25 g/mol
CAS Number124-20-9
PubChem CID1102

Half-Life

IntranasalNot applicable
OralPoor bioavailability

Due to its polycationic nature, spermidine has limited absorption when administered orally.

Storage

Lyophilized

Stable for 2+ years at -20°C, 12 months at 4°C

Reconstituted

Use within 14 days when refrigerated at 4°C

Avoid

Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, direct light

Solvent

Bacteriostatic water or sterile saline recommended

Solubility

Spermidine is highly soluble in water but has limited solubility in organic solvents like acetonitrile and DMSO.

Legal Status

🇩🇪DE

Not approved as a medicinal product. Not a controlled substance. Sale as research chemical is a legal grey area.

🇺🇸US

Not approved by the FDA as a medicinal product. Not a controlled substance.

🇦🇺AU

Not listed under TGA scheduling.

🇬🇧UK

Not approved by MHRA as a medicinal product.

Legal status information is provided for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulatory changes. Always verify with official government sources before making any decisions.

10 Research Publications

Lactobacillus reuteri ZJ617 attenuates metabolic syndrome via microbiota-derived spermidine.

Animal

Nature communications · 2025

Researchers found that the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri ZJ617 can reduce symptoms of metabolic syndrome in mice fed a high-fat diet. This effect is linked to the production of a compound called spermidine, which is generated by gut bacteria when L. reuteri ZJ617 is present. The study highlights the potential of this probiotic to support metabolic health through its interaction with the microbiome.

  • Lactobacillus reuteri ZJ617 improved symptoms of metabolic syndrome in mice on a high-fat diet.
  • The probiotic promotes the production of spermidine by supporting beneficial gut bacteria.
  • Blocking spermidine production in mice negated the positive effects of L. reuteri ZJ617.
PubMed

Spermidine - an old molecule with a new age-defying immune function.

Review

Trends in cell biology · 2024

Researchers found that spermidine, a compound produced by gut bacteria and immune cells, plays a significant role in regulating immune responses and may enhance cancer treatment effectiveness. The study highlights how spermidine levels are linked to aging and cancer, suggesting its potential as a supplement to improve immune therapy outcomes.

  • Spermidine insufficiency is associated with aging and various diseases, including cancer.
  • Researchers observed that spermidine can enhance immune responses against tumors in older animals that typically do not respond to standard therapies.
  • The study suggests that spermidine supplementation could improve the effectiveness of anti-PD-1 cancer treatments.
PubMed

Gut microbiota and anti-aging: Focusing on spermidine.

Review

Critical reviews in food science and nutrition · 2024

Researchers reviewed the role of gut bacteria and a natural compound called spermidine in aging. They found that spermidine, which decreases with age, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that may support longevity. The study highlights the potential of probiotics and prebiotics to boost spermidine levels through diet.

  • Researchers observed that changes in gut microbiota with age can lead to inflammation and metabolic issues.
  • The study found that spermidine plays a crucial role in cell growth and has properties that may prolong life.
  • Researchers identified beneficial bacteria that could enhance spermidine production, suggesting dietary strategies to improve gut health.
PubMed

Spermidine-induced hypusination preserves mitochondrial and cognitive function during aging.

Animal

Autophagy · 2021

Researchers observed that spermidine, a natural compound found in foods like aged cheese and nuts, may support brain health and mitochondrial function as we age. The study found that adding spermidine to the diet of aging animals improved cognitive abilities and cellular processes related to energy production.

  • Spermidine supplementation activated autophagy, a process that helps clear out damaged cells.
  • The study showed improved mitochondrial function in the brains of aging animals.
  • Researchers found that spermidine enhanced a specific cellular modification linked to cognitive function.
PubMed

Dietary spermidine improves cognitive function.

Animal

Cell reports · 2021

Researchers found that dietary spermidine, a natural compound, can improve cognitive function in aging mice by enhancing brain cell health and energy production. The study also linked higher spermidine intake in humans to a lower risk of cognitive decline.

  • Spermidine crosses the blood-brain barrier and boosts brain function in aged mice.
  • The compound enhances learning and memory by improving mitochondrial function and autophagy in neurons.
  • Higher dietary spermidine intake is associated with a reduced risk of cognitive impairment in humans.
PubMed

Regulating T-cell differentiation through the polyamine spermidine.

Animal

The Journal of allergy and clinical immunology · 2021

Researchers studied the role of a compound called spermidine in the immune system, specifically how it influences T-cell differentiation. They found that spermidine promotes the development of a type of immune cell that helps regulate immune responses, suggesting it may play a beneficial role in gut immunity.

  • Researchers observed that spermidine affects the differentiation of T-cells in the immune system.
  • The study found that spermidine enhances the development of regulatory T-cells, which are important for maintaining immune balance.
  • The research highlights the potential of spermidine, produced by gut bacteria, in supporting gut immunity.
PubMed

Spermidine attenuates bleomycin-induced lung fibrosis by inducing autophagy and inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS)-induced cell death in mice.

Animal

Experimental & molecular medicine · 2020

Researchers found that spermidine, a natural compound, may reduce lung fibrosis in mice by promoting cell survival and reducing stress on cells. The study observed that spermidine helps protect lung cells from damage and inflammation associated with lung fibrosis, suggesting its potential as a future treatment option.

  • Spermidine reduced cell death and stress in lung cells affected by fibrosis.
  • It improved cellular health by decreasing signs of premature aging in lung cells.
  • Spermidine enhanced the body's natural cleaning processes, leading to less inflammation and collagen buildup in the lungs.
PubMed

Spermidine improves gut barrier integrity and gut microbiota function in diet-induced obese mice.

Human

Gut microbes · 2020

Researchers found that spermidine, a natural compound, is linked to lower obesity levels in both humans and mice. The study observed that spermidine supplementation led to weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity in obese mice, likely by enhancing gut health and altering gut bacteria composition.

  • Spermidine intake is negatively correlated with obesity in humans and mice.
  • Supplementation with spermidine resulted in significant weight loss and improved insulin resistance in diet-induced obese mice.
  • Spermidine altered the gut microbiota composition, which may play a role in its effects on obesity.
PubMed

Spermidine and spermine delay brain aging by inducing autophagy in SAMP8 mice.

Animal

Aging · 2020

Researchers studied the effects of natural compounds spermidine and spermine on brain aging in mice. They found that these compounds improved brain function and reduced signs of aging by enhancing cellular processes that clear out damaged components and support energy production in neurons.

  • Spermidine and spermine improved cognitive performance in aging mice by enhancing their ability to recognize new objects.
  • These compounds increased the activity of protective enzymes and reduced markers of cellular damage in the aging brain.
  • Spermidine and spermine promoted healthier cellular processes and reduced inflammation, which are linked to brain health.
PubMed

Spermidine: a physiological autophagy inducer acting as an anti-aging vitamin in humans?

Animal

Autophagy · 2019

Researchers studied spermidine, a natural compound that promotes cellular health and may influence aging. They found that spermidine levels decrease as people age, and higher intake of spermidine-rich foods is linked to lower mortality from heart disease and cancer.

  • Spermidine supplementation has been shown to extend lifespan and health span in various animal species.
  • In humans, lower levels of spermidine are associated with age-related health decline.
  • Increased consumption of spermidine-rich foods may reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular diseases and cancer.
PubMed

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This page is for informational and research purposes only. All information is based on published scientific literature. Nothing on this page constitutes medical advice or replaces consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.