Serum vitamin B12
Serum Vitamin B12
Serum Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in the normal functioning of the brain and nervous system, and the formation of red blood cells. It is one of eight B vitamins and is involved in the metabolism of every cell of the human body, particularly affecting DNA synthesis and regulation, as well as fatty acid and amino acid metabolism.
Function[edit | edit source]
Vitamin B12 is required for proper red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. It functions as a cofactor for methionine synthase and L-methylmalonyl-CoA mutase. Methionine synthase catalyzes the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, which is required for the formation of S-adenosylmethionine, a universal methyl donor for almost 100 different substrates, including DNA, RNA, hormones, proteins, and lipids.
Deficiency[edit | edit source]
Vitamin B12 deficiency can potentially cause severe and irreversible damage, especially to the brain and nervous system. At levels only slightly lower than normal, a range of symptoms such as fatigue, depression, and poor memory may be experienced. Vitamin B12 deficiency can also cause symptoms of mania and psychosis.
Measurement[edit | edit source]
Serum vitamin B12 levels are tested to check for a deficiency in the vitamin. The normal range for vitamin B12 can vary slightly depending on the lab. But a typical range for adults is 200 to 900 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL).
Sources[edit | edit source]
Vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal products, including fish, meat, poultry, eggs, milk, and milk products. It is generally not present in plant foods, but fortified breakfast cereals are a readily available source of vitamin B12 with high bioavailability for vegetarians.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD