How Does SAMe Work?
SAMe is necessary in the manufacture of important brain compounds such as neurotransmitters and phospholipids like phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylserine. It improves binding of neurotransmitters to receptor sites, which causes increased serotonin and dopamine activity and improved brain cell membrane fluidity, all resulting in significant clinical improvement. SAMe's three major pathways are transmethylation, transulfuration and transaminopropylation. Studies show the transmethylation pathway boosts levels of the neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. Supplementing the diet with SAMe in depressed patients results in increased levels of serotonin, dopamine, and phosphatidylserine. (Andreoli et al., 1978; Curcio et al., 1978; Czyrak et al., 1992; Fava et al., 1990; Losada and Rubio, 1989; Otero-Losada and Rubio, 1989). 

The donation of carbon groups by SAMe protects catecholamine neurons. SAMe improves nerve cell membrane uptake of phospholipids, enabling the coupling of protein receptors to second messengers within a more fluid lipid bilayer and enhancing transmission of impulses by neurons.