Biochemistry · Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamin B12 and folate: metabolism and megaloblastic anemia

6 min read

Quick Orientation

Section

Definition

Objective
Understand the core idea
Keywords
Folic acid, vitamin B12 (cobalamin), megaloblastic anemia

Chemistry and Active Forms

Objective
Learn the main facts and relationships
Keywords
pteroylglutamic acid (PGA), dihydrofolate reductase, corrin ring

Absorption, Transport and Storage

Objective
Learn the main facts and relationships
Keywords
Folate, folate conjugase, N5-methyl THF

One-Carbon Metabolism and Biochemical Functions

Objective
Follow the sequence and key control points
Keywords
THF, N5 and/or N10, two reactions in mammals

Folate-B12 Interrelationship: Methyl Trap Hypothesis

Objective
Learn the main facts and relationships
Keywords
N5-methyl THF, B12 deficiency, folate trap

Clinical Correlation

Objective
Connect the mechanism to clinical findings
Keywords
Megaloblastic anemia, macrocytic RBC, Pernicious anemia

Definition