Choline: essential for brain development and function.

Pregnancy and lactation are periods when maternal reserves of choline are depleted. At the same time, the availability of choline for normal development of brain is critical. Variations in choline intake by mothers influence memory performance in their offspring. The mechanisms for this potent effect of choline are not yet elucidated but may involve changes in acetylcholine synthesis, transmembrane signal transduction, or regulation of apoptosis. These observations are important for the obstetrician and pediatrician as they consider the ideal dietary intake for mothers and their children.