FOLATE METABOLISM Meaning and
Definition
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Folate metabolism refers to the series of biochemical reactions and processes that the body undergoes to synthesize, utilize, and regenerate the essential nutrient called folate, also known as vitamin B9. Folate is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in various physiological functions of the body, including the production and maintenance of new cells, DNA and RNA synthesis, and amino acid metabolism.
The metabolism of folate begins with its intake through dietary sources, such as leafy greens, legumes, and certain fruits. Once ingested, it undergoes enzymatic processes in the digestive system to be converted into its active form called 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF). This active form is crucial as it can be transported across cell membranes and utilized by various tissues.
Within the cells, folate metabolism involves several enzymatic reactions that convert 5-MTHF into different forms, such as dihydrofolate (DHF) and tetrahydrofolate (THF). These forms are necessary for the synthesis and repair of DNA, as well as for the production of certain amino acids required for protein synthesis.
Furthermore, folate metabolism also encompasses the process of folate recycling, where 5-MTHF can be regenerated from DHF and THF through the actions of specific enzymes. This recycling mechanism is crucial for maintaining an adequate supply of folate in the body.
Imbalances or deficiencies in folate metabolism can lead to various health conditions, such as megaloblastic anemia, neural tube defects, and cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, certain genetic variations and medical conditions can affect folate metabolism and interfere with the body's ability to efficiently utilize and regenerate folate.
Common Misspellings for FOLATE METABOLISM
- dolate metabolism
- colate metabolism
- volate metabolism
- golate metabolism
- tolate metabolism
- rolate metabolism
- filate metabolism
- fklate metabolism
- fllate metabolism
- fplate metabolism
- f0late metabolism
- f9late metabolism
- fokate metabolism
- fopate metabolism
- fooate metabolism
- folzte metabolism
- folste metabolism
- folwte metabolism
- folqte metabolism
- folare metabolism
Etymology of FOLATE METABOLISM
The word "folate" comes from the Latin word "folium", which means "leaf". This is because folate is found abundantly in leafy green vegetables. The term "metabolism" originates from the Latin word "metabolismus" and the Greek word "metabole", both meaning "change" or "transformation". Thus, "folate metabolism" refers to the process of transformation or change that occurs in the body related to the utilization and conversion of folate.
