Pyridoxin

Pyridoxin is the common name for one of the three related compounds that collectively make up vitamin B6. The other two forms are pyridoxal and pyridoxamine, along with their phosphate esters. Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin essential for various metabolic processes in the human body. It plays a crucial role as a cofactor in over 100 enzymatic reactions, primarily involved in amino acid metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, and the formation of hemoglobin.

The body cannot produce vitamin B6 on its own, so it must be obtained through diet. Good dietary sources include poultry, fish, organ meats, starchy vegetables like potatoes, and non-citrus fruits. Deficiency in vitamin B6 can lead to a range of symptoms, including skin rashes, cracked lips, confusion, and anemia. However, severe deficiencies are rare in developed countries due to the widespread availability of fortified foods and a varied diet.

Pyridoxin, along with the other forms of vitamin B6, is absorbed in the small intestine and then converted in the liver to pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP), the active coenzyme form. PLP is vital for processes such as the breakdown of glycogen, the synthesis of heme (a component of red blood cells), and the production of key neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. While vitamin B6 is generally considered safe, excessive intake from supplements can lead to nerve damage.