Folate — role?
DNA synthesis, methylation, RBC formation
B12 — role?
DNA synthesis, methylation, neurological function
Folate sources?
Leafy vegetables, beans, fruits, yeast, mushrooms, animal meat
B12 sources?
Animal products: liver, milk, fish, eggs; microbial synthesis
Folate structure?
Pteroylmonoglutamate with pteridine, p-aminobenzoic acid, glutamate residues
B12 structure?
Corrin ring with central cobalt ion
Folate absorption site?
Jejunum after conversion to monoglutamate by conjugase
B12 absorption site?
Ileum, requires intrinsic factor for uptake
Folate absorption mechanism?
Converted to monoglutamate, transported via PCFT transporter
B12 absorption mechanism?
Bound to intrinsic factor, absorbed via receptor-mediated endocytosis in ileum
One-carbon metabolism — importance?
Transfers methyl groups, supports DNA synthesis and methylation
Key enzyme linking folate and B12?
Methionine synthase, uses methylcobalamin to convert homocysteine to methionine
Deficiency signs?
Megaloblastic anemia, neurological deficits, neural tube defects
Assessment markers?
Serum folate, serum B12, methylmalonic acid, homocysteine
Folate-B12 interaction?
Both needed for methylation; B12 deficiency causes folate trap, masking deficiency
Folate deficiency — effects?
Megalo-blastic anemia, neural tube defects, impaired DNA synthesis
Answer 8 questions on Folate and B12 Metabolism Essentials.
1. What is the primary role of folate and vitamin B12 in cellular metabolism?
2. What is the primary dietary source of vitamin B12?
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