Pteroylmonoglutamic acid

Pteroylmonoglutamic acid, also known as Folic Acid, is a form of the water-soluble Vitamin B9. It is a synthetic form of folate, a naturally occurring nutrient found in various foods. Pteroylmonoglutamic acid is used in dietary supplements and fortified foods due to its increased stability. It plays a crucial role in the body, contributing to the normal function of the immune system, reduction of tiredness and fatigue, and the process of cell division.

Chemical Structure

Pteroylmonoglutamic acid is a compound consisting of a pteridine ring, para-aminobenzoic acid, and glutamic acid. The pteridine ring and para-aminobenzoic acid are linked by a methylene bridge. The glutamic acid is attached to the para-aminobenzoic acid via an amide bond.

Role in the Body

Pteroylmonoglutamic acid is converted into tetrahydrofolate (THF) in the body. THF is a coenzyme that plays a vital role in many important biochemical reactions, including DNA synthesis and repair, methylation reactions, and amino acid synthesis. It is particularly important during periods of rapid cell division and growth, such as during infancy and pregnancy.

Dietary Sources and Supplementation

While folate is present in a variety of foods, including leafy green vegetables, fruits, and legumes, pteroylmonoglutamic acid is not naturally occurring. It is, however, used to fortify certain foods, such as breads and cereals, and is the form of folate most commonly used in dietary supplements.

Health Implications

Adequate intake of pteroylmonoglutamic acid is essential for health. Deficiency can lead to a variety of health problems, including megaloblastic anemia, birth defects, and elevated levels of homocysteine, which is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. On the other hand, excessive intake of pteroylmonoglutamic acid from fortified foods and supplements can mask the symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency, which can lead to neurological damage.

See Also

• Folate
• Vitamin B9
• Megaloblastic anemia
• Homocysteine

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