SAMe (S-adenosyl-methionine) is an amino acid derivative normallysynthesized in the body. SAMe is used by the body in three importantpathways:

1. Methylation (contributing methyl groups to activate certain molecules)29,30
2. The synthesis of polyamines (for cell growth, gene expression, neuronal regeneration, etc.)31-33
3. Trans-sulfuration (synthesis of cysteine, glutathione, and other sulfate chemicals)34-36

In young, healthy people SAMe is well distributed throughout thebody as a result of its synthesis from methionine by enzymes using ATP.However, in sickness and in age, system levels may become depleted.Supplementation of the co-factors folate, TMG, vitamins B6 and B12,together with SAMe appears to be an effective method to overcome thisdeficiency. There is evidence that SAMe helps to synthesizephosphatidylcholine, which keeps cell membranes fluid and is used inthe brain to make the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.29,30,32,35-37*

SAMe has multi-modal mechanisms of action that are used throughoutthe body, and especially the liver. In order to perform itsdetoxification role, the liver performs large numbers of complexenzymatic reactions continually.34,36

SAMe facilitates healthy methylation enzymatic processes and boostshepatic levels of the critical antioxidant, glutathione. When liverfunction is compromised, glutathione is depleted, which leads to freeradical damage. In addition, SAMe acts as a methyl donor in thesynthesis and formation of phosphatidylcholine and L-cysteine, bothnecessary for maintaining liver health.29,34-36*