What is Spermidine?

Spermidine is a naturally occurring polyamine, having two or more primary amino groups. It is widely encountered in ribosomes and living tissues. It plays a critical role in cell function and survival.

Some research suggests that it may prevent liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, common causes of liver cancer. Some people take it as a supplement believing it may have an impact on aging and promote longevity.

In the body, spermidine is created from its precursor putrescine. Spermidine and putrescine are known to stimulate autophagy. A system that breaks down waste inside cells and recycles cellular components. It is an important quality control mechanism for the mitochondria, the powerhouses of our cells. Autophagy allows damaged or defective mitochondria to be broken down and disposed of.

It has been demonstrated to induce autophagy in mouse liver cells, worms, yeast and flies [5]. A defective autophagy mechanism and a lack of spermidine are highly correlated with reduced life spans, chronic stress, and acute inflammation.

Polyamines can bind to many different types of molecules making them very useful. They support processes, including cell growth, DNA stability, cell proliferation, and apoptosis. It also appears that polyamines function in a similar way to growth factors during cell division. This is why putrescine and spermidine are important for healthy tissue growth and function.

What foods are high in spermidine?

Grapefruit, mature cheese, mushrooms, soy products, legumes, corn, and whole grain. Chickpeas, peas, green peppers, broccoli, oranges, green tea, and rice bran contain it too. If you struggle to get enough spermidine in your diet you can also get it in supplement form. Synthetic spermidine used in supplements is identical to the naturally occurring molecule.