tetraëhüdrofolaat

Tetrahydrofolate, often abbreviated as THF, is a vital coenzyme in biological systems. It is derived from folic acid, also known as vitamin B9. THF plays a crucial role in one-carbon metabolism, acting as a carrier for various one-carbon units such as methyl, methylene, and formyl groups. These one-carbon units are essential for numerous metabolic processes.

One of the primary functions of THF is in the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines, which are the building blocks of DNA and RNA. Without sufficient THF, DNA replication and cell division are impaired. This makes THF particularly important during periods of rapid growth, such as fetal development and childhood.

Furthermore, THF is involved in the metabolism of amino acids. It participates in the conversion of serine to glycine and in the remethylation of homocysteine to methionine. Methionine is an essential amino acid required for protein synthesis and is also a precursor to S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), a universal methyl donor involved in a multitude of cellular methylation reactions, including DNA methylation and neurotransmitter synthesis.

The body obtains folic acid from dietary sources like leafy green vegetables, legumes, and fortified grains. Enzymes within the body then convert folic acid into its active form, THF, through a series of reduction steps. Deficiencies in folic acid or THF can lead to megaloblastic anemia, a condition characterized by abnormally large red blood cells and impaired DNA synthesis. Therefore, adequate intake of folic acid is crucial for maintaining overall health and preventing these deficiencies.