D-aspartic acid is present in neurons and synapses in the brain, has a similar structure to the neurotransmitter N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA), and can bind to NMDA receptors. Therefore, it acts as a neurotransmitter/neuromodulator.[1][2][3] For example, D-aspartic acid directly affects neuroendocrine function in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland in the brain, causing the secretion of several hormones, including gonadotropin-releasing hormone, prolactin, luteinizing hormone, and growth hormone.[1][2][3] Additionally, D-aspartic acid directly affects cells in the testes, causing testosterone secretion.[1][2][3] However, many of these actions have only been detected in cell culture (in vitro) and/or animal studies, so their biological relevance in humans is not completely understood.
How does D-aspartic acid work?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
D-aspartic acid functions as a neurotransmitter/neuromodulator by binding to NMDA receptors in the brain; it influences neuroendocrine activity in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland and promotes hormone secretion, including testosterone from the testes. However, its effects have primarily been observed in cell culture and animal studies, which means that its relevance in humans is not fully established.