22-Dihydroergocalciferol

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22-Dihydroergocalciferol

22-Dihydroergocalciferol, commonly referred to as Vitamin D4, stands as one of the various forms of the essential nutrient, vitamin D. Like its vitamin D counterparts, this compound plays roles in numerous physiological processes, particularly concerning calcium homeostasis. Its distinctive molecular structure distinguishes it from other vitamin D analogs.

Molecular Structure

The systematic chemical name for 22-Dihydroergocalciferol is (5Z,7E)-(3S)-9,10-seco-5,7,10(19)-ergostatrien-3-ol. This name provides a clear representation of its molecular configuration, detailing the specific arrangement and connectivity of atoms within the molecule.

Sources

Mushrooms

One of the primary natural sources of Vitamin D4 is certain species of mushrooms. The presence of this compound in mushrooms underscores the diversity of nutritional compounds present in fungi, often going beyond what is commonly recognized.

Physiological Role

While the exact roles of 22-Dihydroergocalciferol in human physiology might be less documented compared to Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) and Vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol), it is understood that all forms of vitamin D play crucial roles in:

Calcium and phosphorus homeostasis Bone health and remodeling Immune system regulation Future research might provide greater insights into the specific physiological contributions of Vitamin D4.

Clinical Significance

Given the importance of vitamin D in various bodily processes, understanding the different forms, including Vitamin D4, can have clinical implications. Deficiencies or imbalances in vitamin D can lead to numerous health complications, from bone deformities to immune system disorders.

See also

• Vitamin D
• Vitamin D2
• Vitamin D3
• Ergocalciferol
• Cholecalciferol
• Hypervitaminosis D, vitamin D poisoning
• Lumisterol, a constituent of vitamin D₁

External links

• Dihydroergocalciferols at lipidmaps.org