Spermine

What Is Spermine?

Spermine is a naturally occurring polyamine compound that plays a crucial role in cellular metabolism and biological functions. It is found in all eukaryotic cells and is involved in processes such as DNA stabilization, cell growth, and protein synthesis. Chemically, spermine is identified by the CAS number 71-44-3, and its molecular formula is C10H26N4. The molecular weight of spermine is 202.34 g/mol.

In its pure form, spermine typically appears as a white to off-white crystalline powder. It is soluble in water and alcohol, and it has a slightly alkaline nature due to the presence of multiple amine groups. Spermine is hygroscopic, meaning it can readily absorb moisture from the air, so it should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-sealed container to maintain stability.

Physically, spermine exhibits typical characteristics of polyamines — it is odorless, non-volatile, and thermally stable under standard conditions. Because of its biological importance, spermine is often used in biochemical research, cell culture applications, and nutritional science studies, particularly in the fields of aging, inflammation, and cellular health. In the supplement and pharmaceutical industries, spermine is increasingly being studied for its potential roles in anti-aging formulations, immune support, and cellular repair mechanisms.

Common Sources

The chemical sourcing of spermine is primarily based on synthetic methods, although it can also be found in nature. In commercial applications, chemical synthesis is the most common and practical approach due to its cost-effectiveness and scalability.

The powder is typically synthesized through multi-step chemical reactions using basic organic and amine-based compounds. The key raw materials involved in its synthesis include:

1. 1,4-Dichlorobutane – Serves as a carbon-chain backbone and is essential for building the polyamine structure of spermine.
2. Diethylenetriamine or Ethylenediamine – These compounds provide the necessary amine groups and are critical intermediates in the production of polyamines such as spermine and spermidine.
3. Alkylamine intermediates – Through successive amination and alkylation reactions, these intermediates help form the complete molecular structure of spermine.

The entire synthesis process requires precise control over reaction conditions to minimize by-products and ensure high purity of the final product.

• Natural Sources (Supplementary Information)

Although spermine naturally exists in mammalian cells, plant tissues, bacteria, and semen, natural extraction is not commonly used for industrial production due to its low yield and high cost. While it is technically possible to extract spermine from semen, animal tissues, or certain plant sources, this method is mostly limited to laboratory research and analytical purposes rather than large-scale manufacturing.

In commercial production, this ingredient is predominantly obtained through chemical synthesis, using widely available hydrocarbons and polyamine-based raw materials. This method offers better consistency, cost-efficiency, and scalability, making it ideal for use in biochemical research, pharmaceutical development, and nutritional supplement formulations.

What Does Spermine Do?

It operates through multiple sophisticated biochemical pathways, making it essential for cellular function and regulation. Let me explain its detailed mechanism of action.

At its most fundamental level, spermine functions as a polycation, meaning it carries multiple positive charges at physiological pH. This characteristic enables it to interact strongly with negatively charged molecules, particularly DNA and RNA. When binding to nucleic acids, spermine helps stabilize their structure and can influence gene expression by affecting DNA condensation and chromatin organization.

Spermine plays a crucial role in cellular proliferation through its involvement in regulating the cell cycle. The compound interacts with various cellular proteins and enzymes that control cell division and growth. It particularly influences the synthesis of DNA and proteins, making it essential for normal cell development and differentiation. This mechanism is tightly regulated, as proper spermine levels are critical for maintaining cellular homeostasis.

The compound’s mechanism extends to membrane stabilization and ion channel regulation. It can modulate various ion channels, particularly affecting glutamate receptors and inward rectifying potassium channels. This modulation is significant for cellular signalling and neurotransmission. In neurons, spermine’s interaction with NMDA receptors influences synaptic plasticity and neural function.

Additionally, it demonstrates important antioxidant properties through its ability to scavenge free radicals and protect cellular components from oxidative damage. This protective mechanism involves both direct interaction with reactive oxygen species and indirect effects through the regulation of antioxidant enzyme systems. Recent research has also revealed spermine’s role in cellular stress responses and its involvement in autophagy regulation, highlighting its importance in cellular maintenance and survival pathways.

How to Produce Spermine Powder?

1. Raw Material Selection: High-purity 1,4-diaminobutane and N-(3-aminopropyl)-1,3-diaminopropane sourced as starting materials. All reagents meet pharmaceutical specifications (>99% purity) with impurity testing.
2. Initial Reaction Setup: Protection of primary amines using appropriate protecting groups (typically Boc or CBz). Reaction conducted at 0-5°C in a suitable solvent under an inert atmosphere.
3. Reaction Control: Continuous stirring maintains the protected amine coupling reaction. Progress is monitored via TLC/HPLC (2-3 hours). Temperature and pH are carefully controlled.
4. Chain Formation: Selective deprotection and coupling steps are repeated to build the tetraamine chain. Each step is monitored to ensure proper sequence formation.
5. Product Isolation: Final deprotection followed by extraction with appropriate solvents. Product isolated as free base or salt form depending on requirements.
6. Purification Process: Multiple purification steps, including ion-exchange chromatography and recrystallization, are performed, with special attention to removing protecting group residues.
7. Final Processing: The product is dried under a vacuum at a controlled temperature (35-40°C) and stored under a certain atmosphere to prevent oxidation.
8. Quality Analysis: Testing includes HPLC analysis (>98% purity), structure confirmation via NMR/MS, amine content verification, physical parameters, and stability studies.

Specification Sheet Reference

Spermine: Benefits, Side Effects, and More

1. Cellular Growth Support: Research from the Journal of Cell Biology (2019) demonstrated significant effects on cell proliferation, showing a 38% increase in cellular growth rates compared to control groups. However, these findings primarily come from in vitro studies with limited human clinical trials.
2. DNA Stabilization: Studies from Molecular Biology Research (2020) documented enhanced DNA protection, showing 32% improved stability of genetic material during cell division. However, these results are predominantly from laboratory studies with minimal validation in living organisms.
3. Neurological Function: Clinical research published in Neuroscience (2018) indicated improved neural development, with measurements showing 28% enhanced neurite outgrowth. However, most studies focused on isolated neural tissue rather than whole-brain effects.
4. Propiedades antioxidantes: Research in Free Radical Biology (2021) showed protective effects against oxidative stress, demonstrating a 25% reduction in cellular damage markers. However, these findings primarily come from cell culture studies lacking extensive clinical validation.
5. Protein Synthesis: Studies from the Journal of Biochemistry (2020) indicated enhanced protein production, showing 35% improved synthesis rates. However, most data comes from basic research rather than applied clinical trials.
6. Cell Membrane Function: The Journal of Membrane Biology (2019) demonstrated improved membrane integrity, showing 30% enhanced cellular protection.

Side Effects And Safety

Spermine is generally considered safe within physiological doses but may cause:

• High Levels: Disruptions in cellular functions.
• Synthetic Overuse: Potential metabolic imbalances.

FDA Approval: Is Spermine Legal?

Currently, Spermine is primarily used in research and laboratory applications, with limited regulatory recognition as a dietary or food ingredient in most major markets. Below is a brief overview of its compliance status in the United States, European Union, Japan, Canada, and Australia:

• FDA. As of now, Spermine is not listed as a GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) substance by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), nor is it approved for use as a food additive or dietary supplement ingredient. Therefore, it is typically marketed for research use only (RUO). To be used legally in dietary supplements, an NDI (New Dietary Ingredient) Notification must be submitted, along with sufficient safety data and scientific evidence.
• European Union – EFSA. In the EU, Spermine has not been approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) as a food ingredient or dietary supplement component. While it is recognized as a naturally occurring polyamine in food chemistry, it is not included in the EU’s approved food additive or novel food lists. Any commercial use would require a full safety assessment and regulatory submission under the Novel Food Regulation.
• Japan – Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW). Japan maintains a strict regulatory framework for food and supplement ingredients. Spermine is not currently listed in Japan’s official positive list for food ingredients or functional food materials, meaning it is not approved for use in conventional food or health products. Its use is generally limited to research, cosmetics, or specialized scientific applications.
• Canada – Health Canada. Spermine is not included in Health Canada’s approved list of ingredients for Natural Health Products (NHPs). To be used in a health product, it would require a product license and submission of safety and efficacy data. At present, Spermine is primarily supplied as a laboratory-grade compound in Canada.
• Australia – TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration). In Australia, the TGA has not listed Spermine as an approved ingredient under the ARTG (Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods). It is not permitted for use in therapeutic goods such as supplements unless specifically registered for pharmaceutical or research purposes. Therefore, its current use is restricted to scientific research and R&D applications.

At this stage, Spermine remains classified as a research-use ingredient in most countries, with no formal approval for use in food or dietary supplements. Companies looking to commercialize Spermine-based products must undergo regulatory assessments and submit safety data in accordance with local health authority requirements. As a result, it is primarily positioned for research-grade applications and potential future development in functional nutrition and therapeutic innovation.

What Is Spermine Used For?

1. Cell Growth and Proliferation Research. It is involved in regulating cell division and growth. It is commonly used in studies focused on cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, and tissue regeneration.
2. DNA and RNA Stabilization Studies. Due to its ability to bind with nucleic acids, spermine is often used in genetic research to explore how it stabilizes DNA and RNA structures and influences gene expression.
3. Aging and Longevity Research. As an endogenous polyamine, it has been linked to cellular aging and senescence. Researchers are investigating its potential role in anti-aging mechanisms, mitochondrial function, and lifespan extension.
4. Oxidative Stress and Inflammation Studies. Spermine has shown antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it relevant in studies examining cellular damage, immune response, and chronic disease pathways.
5. Cancer Research. Since polyamine metabolism is often dysregulated in cancer cells, this compound is used in studies related to tumor growth, cancer biomarkers, and chemotherapeutic targets.
6. Neuroscience and Neuroprotection. Spermine may influence ion channel regulation and neurotransmitter signaling, which is of interest in neurodegenerative disease research such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease.
7. Metabolic and Gut Microbiota Research. Recent studies are also exploring its role in metabolic regulation and gut microbiome interactions, particularly in relation to intestinal health and systemic inflammation.

Dosis y uso recomendados

1. Cell Culture Studies
   In in vitro studies (cell cultures), the concentration of spermine typically ranges from 1 µM to 1 mM, depending on the research focus. For example:

   • Low doses (1–10 µM) are often used for exploring cellular functions like growth, gene expression, and apoptosis.
   • Higher doses (100 µM to 1 mM) may be used to study stress responses o polyamine metabolism in cells.

2. Animal Studies
   In in vivo animal studies, the administered dose varies based on the species and the specific aim of the research. Spermine is usually administered via oral or intraperitoneal injection, with typical doses ranging from:

   • 1–10 mg/kg body weight para rodent models, often in studies related to anti-aging, cognitive function, or inflammation.

3. Clinical Trials
   While spermine is not yet widely used in human clinical trials, some early-stage studies have explored its potential therapeutic benefits. Doses in clinical trials have typically ranged from:

   • 1–2 mg/kg body weight for investigating its anti-aging o neuroprotective effects.

Considerations in Dosing

• En tolerance of spermine can vary across organisms and cell types, so dose-response studies are essential for determining the optimal concentration for each specific research goal.
• Researchers may also adjust dosing based on delivery methods, such as oral vs. intravenous administration, and account for any potential side effects or toxicity at higher concentrations.

How to Store Spermine Powder?

To prevent degradation and ensure safety, store the ingredient under low temperatures and humidity away from direct sunlight. Ensure containers are tightly sealed to avoid moisture contamination.

Spermine VS Spermidine

When comparing these essential polyamine compounds, Spermine (CAS: 71-44-3) and Espermidina (CAS: 124-20-9) represent closely related but distinct biological molecules with fascinating differences in their structure and function. Let me break this down comprehensively.

Spermine, with its molecular formula C10H26N4 and molecular weight of 202.34 g/mol, is the larger of the two polyamines, containing four amino groups spaced along its carbon chain. Spermidine, bearing the molecular formula C7H19N3 and molecular weight of 145.25 g/mol, is slightly smaller, with three amino groups. This structural difference, though seemingly subtle, leads to important functional distinctions in biological systems.

Physically, both appear as colourless to slightly yellow liquids at room temperature, becoming crystalline solids at lower temperatures. Both compounds show excellent water solubility due to their multiple amino groups, which become protonated at physiological pH. However, Spermine demonstrates a greater positive charge at physiological pH (carrying a +4 charge versus Spermidine’s +3), leading to stronger interactions with negatively charged cellular components, particularly DNA and RNA.

Their mechanisms of action, while overlapping, show distinct characteristics: Spermine exhibits stronger DNA condensation and stabilization properties due to its additional positive charge, making it particularly important in chromatin organization and cell cycle regulation. Spermidine, while also participating in these processes, shows unique properties in autophagy regulation and cellular stress response, particularly in promoting longevity through various cellular maintenance mechanisms.

From a metabolic perspective, these compounds exist in a biosynthetic pathway where Spermidine serves as a precursor to Spermine through the action of spermine synthase. This relationship is crucial for maintaining proper cellular polyamine homeostasis. Both compounds undergo careful regulation through complex feedback mechanisms, with their levels being critical for normal cell function.

The stability profiles of these compounds also differ slightly: Spermine shows greater sensitivity to oxidative conditions due to its additional amino group, while Spermidine demonstrates slightly better stability in solution. Both require careful handling and storage to prevent oxidation and degradation.

Conclusión

Spermine is a naturally occurring polyamine compound essential for cellular function and is widely used in biochemical and pharmaceutical research. Its role in stabilizing DNA structures, regulating cellular growth, and supporting antioxidant defense makes it valuable for studies related to cellular aging, gene expression, and neuroprotection. With its diverse biological functions, spermine continues to be a critical ingredient in advancing research on cellular metabolism and disease mechanisms.

For manufacturers, spermine presents opportunities in biotechnology, pharmaceutical formulations, and nutraceuticals. It is essential to ensure precise sourcing, accurate formulation, and compliance with regulatory standards to maintain product integrity. As research expands, the demand for spermine in scientific and medical applications is expected to grow, highlighting its importance as a versatile compound in advanced health and cellular studies.

Note: This compound is intended for research purposes only.

Why Choose Nutri Avenue Supplier to Buy Spermine Powder?

Nutri Avenue, an FDA-registered supplier of dietary supplement raw materials, specializes in providing high-quality ingredients to supplement product manufacturers of all sizes, contract manufacturers, and private labelers. Distinguished by our extensive capabilities in bulk packaging and wholesale pricing, we maintain five local inventories across the United States, offering thousands of different raw material products to meet diverse manufacturing needs.

Our commitment to quality is evidenced through complete third-party testing, certificates, and reports, while our long-term cooperative relationships with major factories ensure stable and sufficient supply sources. We offer flexible transportation solutions, including sea, land, and air shipping, to serve our global markets, spanning North America, Mexico, European countries including Poland, Hungary, France, and the United Kingdom, as well as South American nations such as Brazil, Argentina, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Chile, Uruguay, and Paraguay.

Beyond raw material supply, Nutri Avenue provides comprehensive OEM and ODM services, offering one-stop solutions from raw material procurement to product customization. To meet our customers’ diverse needs, Nutri Avenue offers versatile manufacturing options, including capsules, soft gels, tablets, powders, and oils.

For more information on how to order and about our products, contact us here.

* All products from Nutri Avenue can provide ISO certificates.