Citicoline Cognizin®: An Overview
Introduction
Citicoline Cognizin® is the trademarked form of citicoline, also known chemically as cytidine‑5′‑diphosphocholine (CDP‑choline). Manufactured by Kyowa Hakko USA, Cognizin® is presented as a high‑purity, crystalline ingredient for use in dietary supplements and research.
Production Process
Cognizin® is produced via a fermentation process using a proprietary strain of microorganisms. Following fermentation, the product undergoes multiple purification steps—including crystallization and drying—to achieve a stated purity of greater than 99%. Quality control tests are performed at each stage to monitor parameters such as moisture content, microbial limits, and heavy metal levels.
Biochemical Role
Citicoline (CDP‑choline) is an intermediate in the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine, a major phospholipid component of cell membranes. In its intact form, CDP‑choline consists of a cytidine moiety linked to choline via a diphosphate bridge. When introduced into an aqueous environment, CDP‑choline can dissociate into cytidine and choline.
Applications in Research and Industry
Nutritional supplements: Cognizin® is incorporated into various dietary supplement formulations, often combined with vitamins, minerals, or other nutraceutical ingredients.
Neuroscience research: Utilized as a reagent or reference standard in studies examining phospholipid metabolism, membrane dynamics, and related pathways.
Quality standards: Supplier documentation for Cognizin® typically includes certificates of analysis (CoAs) detailing purity, absence of contaminants, and batch consistency.
Under these conditions, shelf‑life is generally specified as 2–3 years from the date of manufacture, subject to verification by periodic stability testing.
Regulatory Status
Citicoline is registered as a dietary ingredient in many regions, including the United States, Europe, and Asia. Cognizin® is sold as a raw material for supplement manufacturers. Regulatory filings typically reference ISO and USP standards for identity and purity testing.
Analytical Methods
Common analytical techniques employed for Citrloine Cognizin® quality control include:
High‑Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC): To quantify citicoline content and detect related impurities.
Mass Spectrometry (MS): For molecular confirmation.
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR): To verify structural integrity.
Karl Fischer titration: To determine moisture content.
Conclusion
Citicoline Cognizin® is a well‑characterized, trademarked form of CDP‑choline, produced under controlled fermentation and purification processes to yield a high‑purity ingredient. Its physicochemical properties, manufacturing standards, and analytical profiles are documented in supplier literature, making it a defined raw material for both supplement formulation and scientific research.