Biochemistry · Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamin C: functions and deficiency

3 min read

Quick Orientation

Section

Definition

Objective
Understand the core idea
Keywords
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), 60 to 70 mg/day

Chemistry

Objective
Learn the main facts and relationships
Keywords
enolic hydroxyl groups, D-ascorbic acid is biologically inactive, 15:1

Biosynthesis, Absorption and Excretion

Objective
Follow the sequence and key control points
Keywords
cannot synthesize ascorbic acid, L-gulonolactone oxidase, not stored

Dietary Sources

Objective
Learn the main facts and relationships
Keywords
citrus fruits, gooseberry (amla), guava, milk is a poor source

Biochemical Functions

Objective
Learn the main facts and relationships
Keywords
antioxidant property, hydroxylation of proline

Clinical Correlation

Objective
Connect the mechanism to clinical findings
Keywords
Scurvy, collagen synthesis, Megadose controversy

Definition