The word "Folate Polyglutamates" is spelled with three syllables. The first syllable "fo" is pronounced with the vowel sound /oʊ/. The second syllable "late" is pronounced with the long vowel sound /leɪt/. The third syllable "polyglutamates" is pronounced with the stress on the second-to-last syllable, and with the vowel sound /ə/ in the first and third syllables. The consonants are pronounced as follows: "p" with the sound /p/, "l" with the sound /l/, "g" with the sound /ɡ/, "t" with the sound /t/, "m" with the sound /m/ and "s" with the sound /s/.
Folate polyglutamates refer to a group of compounds that are structurally similar to folic acid or folate, a B vitamin essential for various biological processes in the human body. Folate polyglutamates are an active form of folate that play a crucial role in the synthesis and metabolism of DNA, RNA, and proteins. This group of compounds consists of multiple glutamate molecules attached to a central folate molecule through specific chemical bonds.
The presence of polyglutamates enhances the bioavailability and stability of folic acid, making it more biologically active and assisting in its proper utilization. This modification allows the molecule to be effectively transported across cell membranes and into various compartments within the cell.
Folate polyglutamates are primarily found in natural food sources, such as leafy green vegetables, fruits, legumes, and fortified grains. They can also be obtained through dietary supplements. Upon ingestion, the folate polyglutamates are enzymatically broken down into the active folate form, which is then used by the body in various metabolic reactions.
A deficiency in folate polyglutamates can lead to several health issues, including anemia, improper development of red and white blood cells, impaired cognitive function, and an increased risk of neural tube defects in infants.
In conclusion, folate polyglutamates are active, biologically-utilizable forms of folic acid found in natural food sources and supplements. These compounds are crucial for DNA synthesis, cellular metabolism, and overall health.
The term "folate polyglutamates" is a scientific term that is composed of two main parts: "folate" and "polyglutamates".
1. Folate: The word "folate" derives from the Latin word "folium" which means "leaf". The term was coined by the scientist Lucy Wills in the 1940s when she discovered that a dietary factor found in certain green leafy vegetables could prevent anemia in pregnant women. This factor was later identified as a B vitamin, and the name folate was given to it.
2. Polyglutamates: The word "polyglutamates" is derived from two components: "poly-" which means "many" and "glutamates". Glutamates refers to the acidic amino acid glutamic acid. In this context, polyglutamates are multiple units of glutamic acid linked together.