Cobamamide

Cobamamide is a coenzyme form of vitamin B12 (cobalamin). It is also known as adenosylcobalamin or dibencozide. Cobamamide plays a crucial role in the metabolism of cells, particularly affecting DNA synthesis and regulation, as well as fatty acid and amino acid metabolism.

Structure and Function

Cobamamide is one of the two active forms of vitamin B12, the other being methylcobalamin. It is characterized by the presence of an adenosyl group attached to the cobalt ion in the cobalamin structure. This coenzyme is essential for the function of methylmalonyl-CoA mutase, an enzyme involved in the conversion of methylmalonyl-CoA to succinyl-CoA, a critical step in the metabolism of certain amino acids and fatty acids.

Biological Role

Cobamamide is vital for the proper functioning of the nervous system and for the production of red blood cells. It is involved in the synthesis of myelin, the protective sheath around nerves, and in the production of neurotransmitters. Deficiency in cobamamide can lead to severe neurological and hematological disorders, including megaloblastic anemia and neuropathy.

Sources

Cobamamide is naturally found in animal-derived foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. It can also be synthesized in the laboratory and is available as a dietary supplement, often used to treat vitamin B12 deficiency.

Clinical Significance

Deficiency in cobamamide can result from inadequate dietary intake, malabsorption syndromes, or certain medical conditions such as pernicious anemia. Symptoms of deficiency include fatigue, weakness, constipation, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Neurological symptoms may include numbness and tingling in the hands and feet, difficulty maintaining balance, depression, confusion, dementia, and poor memory.

Related Pages

• Vitamin B12
• Methylcobalamin
• Megaloblastic anemia
• Nervous system
• DNA synthesis
• Fatty acid metabolism
• Amino acid metabolism

See Also

• Cobalamin
• Methylmalonyl-CoA mutase
• Myelin
• Neurotransmitter

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