Folatstoffwechsel

Folatstoffwechsel refers to the biochemical processes involved in the metabolism of folate, also known as vitamin B9. Folate is a water-soluble vitamin essential for numerous bodily functions, including DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation, as well as red blood cell formation and amino acid metabolism.

The human body cannot synthesize folate, so it must be obtained from dietary sources such as leafy green vegetables, legumes, and fortified grains. Once ingested, folate undergoes absorption in the small intestine and is transported to the liver for storage and further processing. In the liver, folate is converted into its active form, tetrahydrofolate (THF), which serves as a crucial coenzyme in one-carbon transfer reactions.

THF and its derivatives are involved in the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines, the building blocks of DNA and RNA. They are also critical for the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, an amino acid essential for protein synthesis and methylation reactions. Methylation plays a vital role in gene expression, neurotransmitter synthesis, and detoxification.

Disruptions in folate metabolism can lead to various health problems. Folate deficiency can result in megaloblastic anemia, characterized by the production of abnormally large red blood cells. It is also strongly linked to neural tube defects in developing fetuses, highlighting the importance of adequate folate intake during pregnancy. Furthermore, impaired folate metabolism has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer. Genetic variations in folate metabolism enzymes can also influence individual folate requirements and susceptibility to deficiency.