What is D-Aspartic Acid (DAA)? Aspartic acid exists in two forms: l-aspartic acid and d-aspartic acid. They are enantiomers, meaning their molecular formulas are mirror images that are not superimposable. The body incorporates l-aspartic acid into proteins. L-Aspartic acid also participates in the urea cycle to eliminate toxic ammonia buildup. D-Aspartic acid plays a role in increasing the release of testosterone-producing hormones, increasing testosterone production, and boosting the release of testosterone into the testes. Potential D-Aspartic Acid Benefits Potential D-Aspartic Acid Benefits for Testosterone D-Aspartic acid acts as a signaling molecule in the neuroendocrine systems in the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus. DAA’s primary function revolves around regulating, releasing, or synthesizing numerous sex hormones. Its actions stimulate the secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, growth hormone, luteinizing hormone, and prolactin. It also upregulates the messenger RNA (mRNA) involved in producing Stimulating steroidogenic Acute Regulatory Protein (StAR) compounds. StAR controls the production of sex hormones in Leydig cells—the primary source of testosterone in men. One study found that participants taking DAA supplements experienced a 15% increase in testosterone at six days and a 42% increase after 12 days. Another study reported similar findings, with infertile men experiencing a 30-60% testosterone increase after three months. D-Aspartic Acid and Fertility D-Aspartic acid stimulates the release of several hormones involved in fertility, such as gonadotropin-releasing hormone. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone directly affects the levels of sex hormones, libido, and fertility. It causes the pituitary gland to produce luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone. In men, luteinizing hormone promotes testosterone synthesis and triggers the production and maturation of sperm in the testes. In women, gonadotropin-releasing hormone prompts the ovaries to synthesize estrogen and progesterone, which are necessary for eggs to mature and for eventual ovulation. D-Aspartic acid may support fertility due to its influence on developing and releasing mature sperm and eggs. D-Aspartic Acid and Cognition DAA may support cognition and improve memory. It is a neurotransmitter involved in forming new neurons in the brain and learning. Animal studies show that DAA improves synaptic plasticity and cognition. One study noted that animals given DAA supplements had enhanced cognitive capabilities due to DAA’s role in modulating memory and learning. DAA may further enhance cognition by upregulating NMDA receptors—one of two glutamate receptors involved in learning and new memory formation. Potential D-Aspartic Acid Side Effects A 90-day study failed to find any d-aspartic acid side effects. That same study performed in-depth blood tests to measure creatinine, electrolytes, glucose, liver enzymes, urea, and both red and white blood cell function. The researchers found no anomalies. Some individuals are sensitive to amino acids and may experience mild stomach discomfort when taking d-aspartic acid supplements. References https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC353039 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18642934 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17118457 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10744627 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18642934 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17118457 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33218144 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22872108 https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/gonadotropin-releasing-hormone https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19860889 http://www.scirp.org/journal/PaperInformation.aspx?paperID=24016 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21163862 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26707656 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19890700 https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-85360-w https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3703758 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK2532
