BETAHYDROXYBUTYRIC ACID Meaning and
Definition
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Betahydroxybutyric acid, also known as β-Hydroxybutyric acid or BHB, is a naturally occurring organic compound that belongs to the class of hydroxy acids. It is produced within the human body under specific physiological conditions, especially during fasting, prolonged exercise, or when following a low-carbohydrate, high-fat ketogenic diet.
The molecular formula of betahydroxybutyric acid is C4H8O3, and it is derived from the metabolism of fatty acids in the liver. BHB exists as a chiral molecule with two enantiomers: D-BHB and L-BHB. The D-BHB enantiomer is the active form that has numerous biological functions, while the L-BHB enantiomer has no known physiological activity.
Betahydroxybutyric acid plays a crucial role in energy metabolism, particularly in the absence of glucose availability. It serves as an alternative energy substrate to glucose for organs like the brain, heart, and muscles. BHB is transported in the bloodstream to these tissues, where it is converted back into acetyl-CoA for entry into the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle) and subsequent ATP production.
Additionally, betahydroxybutyric acid possesses signaling properties and acts as a signaling molecule that interacts with various cellular processes. It can bind to specific receptors, such as HCA2 receptors, and regulate gene expression, inflammation, oxidative stress, and oxidative metabolism.
Therapeutically, betahydroxybutyric acid has gained attention for its potential applications in treating neurological disorders, including epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, and Parkinson's disease. It may also have benefits for metabolic diseases like type 2 diabetes and obesity. This has led to the development of ex
Etymology of BETAHYDROXYBUTYRIC ACID
The word "Betahydroxybutyric Acid" can be broken down as follows:
- "Beta": This term is derived from the Greek letter "β" (beta), which is used in scientific nomenclature to indicate that the hydroxyl group is attached to the second carbon atom in the molecule.
- "Hydroxy": This term is derived from the combining form "hydro-" meaning "water", and "-oxy", which refers to the presence of an oxygen atom. describe a compound containing a hydroxyl group (-OH).
- "Butyric": This term is derived from the Latin word "butyrum", meaning "butter". It is frequently used in chemistry to indicate a compound with a four-carbon chain.
- "Acid": This term is derived from the Latin word "acidus", meaning "sour" or "acid".
