Tetrahydrofolate

Tetrahydrofolate (THF) is a form of the vitamin folate that plays a crucial role in many biological reactions. It is involved in the synthesis of DNA, RNA, and amino acids, and is essential for cell growth and division.

Structure and Function

Tetrahydrofolate is composed of a pteridine ring, para-aminobenzoic acid, and a glutamate residue. The pteridine ring is the active part of the molecule and is responsible for its biological activity.

THF functions as a coenzyme in single-carbon transfers in the synthesis of nucleic acids and amino acids. It is involved in the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines, and the formation of glutamate from formate.

Metabolism

The metabolism of tetrahydrofolate is complex and involves several enzymes. It is synthesized from dietary folate by the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase. Once formed, THF can be converted into a variety of other forms, each of which serves a specific function in the body.

Clinical Significance

Deficiencies in tetrahydrofolate can lead to a variety of health problems, including megaloblastic anemia, neural tube defects in developing fetuses, and elevated levels of homocysteine, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

Certain medications, such as Methotrexate, work by inhibiting the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase, thereby reducing the levels of THF in the body. This can lead to side effects such as mucositis and myelosuppression.

See Also

• Folic acid
• Folate receptor alpha
• Folate receptor beta
• Folate metabolism

References

Tetrahydrofolate Resources
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