WHAT IS VITAMINS

Vitamins are organic compounds that people need in small

quantities. Each has a different role in maintaining health and
bodily function. The vitamins are natural and essential nutrients, required in
small quantities and play a major role in growth and development, repair and
healing wounds, maintaining healthy bones and tissues, for the proper
functioning of an immune system, and other biological functions. These
essential organic compounds have diverse biochemical functions.
There are thirteen different types of vitamins and all are
required for the metabolic processes. The discovery of the
vitamins was begun in the year 1912 by a Polish American
biochemist Casimir Funk. Based on his research and discoveries
on vitamins, their sources, functions and deficiency disorders,
he is considered as the father of vitamins and vitamin therapy.
Similar to minerals, vitamins cannot be synthesized by our body. Therefore, we need
to get them from the food we consume or in extreme cases supplements to keep
ourselves healthy.

TWO MAIN TYPES

Fat-soluble vitamin
Fat-soluble vitamins are stored in the fat cells and as the name suggests, these
vitamins require fat in order to be absorbed. Vitamin A, D, E and K are fat-soluble
vitamins.

Water-soluble vitamin
Water-soluble vitamins are not stored in our body as its excess gets excrete through
the urine. Therefore, these vitamins need to be replenished constantly. Vitamin B
and C are water-soluble vitamins.

Vitamins are usually designated by selected letters of the

alphabet, as in vitamin D or vitamin C, though they are also
designated by chemical names, such as niacin and folic acid.
Biochemists traditionally separate them into two groups, the
water-soluble vitamins and the fat-soluble vitamins. The common
and chemical names of vitamins of both groups, along with their
main biological functions and deficiency symptoms, are listed in
the table.
n 1913 American researcher Elmer McCollum divided vitamins
into two groups: “fat-soluble A” and “water-soluble B.”
FAT SOLUBLE VITAMIN
Fat-soluble vitamins are absorbed along with fats in the diet and are stored in the body's fatty
tissue and in the liver. They are found in many plant and animal foods and in dietary
supplements. Vitamins A, D, E, and K are fat-soluble. Fat-soluble vitamins are absorbed
along with fats in the diet and are stored in the body's fatty tissue and in the liver. They are
found in many plant and animal foods and in dietary supplements. Despite structural
differences between fat-soluble vitamins, they are absorbed and transported similarly due to
their low solubility in hydrophilic media. The body absorbs fat-soluble vitamins into newly
forming micelles in the small intestine. Micelles are lipid clusters that contain hydrophobic
groups internally and hydrophilic groups externally. This process relies on the secretion of
bile and pancreatic enzymes. After absorption into enterocytes, fat-soluble vitamins become
packaged into chylomicrons, which then get secreted into the lymphatic system before
entering the bloodstream. Chylomicrons are metabolized by lipoprotein lipase, which causes
the release of fat-soluble vitamins into tissues for use and storage.
Because they are stored in tissue, the fat-soluble vitamins are retained by the body for
a longer time than the water-soluble vitamins. Remnants of the chylomicron are then taken
back up by the liver and recycled. Alpha-tocopherol is targeted into lipoproteins in the liver
by a specific tocopherol transfer protein (TTP), mutations of which can result in vitamin E
deficiency.[4]
 VITAMIN A

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is naturally present in many

foods. Vitamin A is important for normal vision, the immune system,
reproduction, and growth and development. Vitamin A also helps
your heart, lungs, and other organs work properly.

CHEMISTRY OF VITAMIN A
Vitamin A is structurally related to β-carotene. β-Carotene is
converted into vitamin A in the liver. Two molecules of vitamin A are
formed from on molecule of beta carotene. Oxidation: If you
compare the two molecules, it is clear that vitamin A (retinol) is very
closely related to half of the beta-carotene molecule.
STRUCTURTE
Vitamin A comprises a family of molecules containing a 20 carbon
structure with a methyl substituted cyclohexenyl ring (beta-ionone
ring) (Figure 4-1) and a tetraene side chain with a hydroxyl group
(retinol), aldehyde group (retinal), carboxylic acid group (retinoic
acid), or ester group (retinyl ester) at carbon-15.
 Molecular Formula: C₁₉H₃₁O
 Structure: Vitamin A has a long carbon chain with a beta-ionone ring, which
contributes to its biological activity. The structure includes:
o A hydroxyl group (-OH) at one end, which classifies it as an alcohol.
o Conjugated double bonds in the carbon chain, which play a role in its function
and stability.

Types of Vitamin A

1. Retinol: The active form of vitamin A, primarily found in animal sources.

2. Retinal: A form involved in vision; it combines with opsin to form rhodopsin in the
retina.
3. Retinoic Acid: The oxidized form of retinol, involved in gene expression and cellular
growth.
Viamin b

Vitamin B refers to a group of water-soluble vitamins that play essential roles in cell
metabolism. The B vitamins include several distinct compounds, each with its own chemical
structure and function. Here’s a closer look at the chemistry of some key B vitamins:

1. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)

 Chemical Formula: C₁₂H₁₄N₂OS

 Structure: Thiamine has a thiazole ring and a pyrimidine ring. It is involved in
carbohydrate metabolism as a coenzyme (thiamine pyrophosphate) that helps convert
carbohydrates into energy.

2. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

 Chemical Formula: C₁₄H₁₈N₄O₆

 Structure: Riboflavin contains a flavin structure, which includes an isoalloxazine
ring. It is a precursor for the coenzymes FAD (flavin adenine dinucleotide) and FMN
(flavin mononucleotide), essential for various oxidation-reduction reactions in
metabolism.

3. Vitamin B3 (Niacin)

 Chemical Formula: C₆H₅N₃O

 Forms: Niacin exists as nicotinic acid and nicotinamide. It is involved in energy
metabolism and is a precursor for NAD (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) and
NADP (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate), crucial for redox reactions.

4. Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)

 Chemical Formula: C₉H₁₇NO₅

 Structure: Pantothenic acid contains a pantoic acid moiety and β-alanine. It is a
precursor for coenzyme A (CoA), vital for fatty acid synthesis and metabolism.

5. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)

 Chemical Formula: C₈H₉N₃O₃

 Forms: Includes pyridoxine, pyridoxal, and pyridoxamine. It is involved in amino
acid metabolism and is a coenzyme in various enzymatic reactions.

6. Vitamin B7 (Biotin)

 Chemical Formula: C₁₀H₁₄N₂O₃S

  Structure: Biotin consists of a ureido ring fused with a tetrahydrothiophene ring. It
functions as a coenzyme for carboxylase enzymes, playing a key role in fatty acid
synthesis and gluconeogenesis.

7. Vitamin B9 (Folate)

 Chemical Formula: C₁₉H₁₉N₇O₆

 Structure: Folate consists of a pteridine ring, para-aminobenzoic acid, and glutamic
acid. It is crucial for DNA synthesis and repair, and it acts as a coenzyme in the form
of tetrahydrofolate.

8. Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)

 Chemical Formula: C₆₃H₈₁CoN₁₄O₁₄P

 Structure: Cobalamin contains a corrin ring with a cobalt ion at its center. It is
essential for red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis, and neurological function.

Vitain d

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a critical role in calcium homeostasis and bone
health. Here’s an overview of its chemistry and related functions:

Chemical Structure

 Forms: The two primary forms of vitamin D are:

o Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol): Derived from yeast and fungi.
 Chemical Formula: C₂₇H₄₄O
o Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol): Synthesized in the skin upon exposure to
ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation from sunlight.
 Chemical Formula: C₂₇H₄₄O

Chemical Properties

 Structure: Both forms have a similar steroid structure, featuring a secosteroid

backbone. A secosteroid is a steroid with a broken ring, which is crucial for their
biological activity.
 Solubility: Being fat-soluble, vitamin D can be stored in body fat and liver tissues.

Metabolism

1. Synthesis:
o Skin: When UVB rays hit the skin, 7-dehydrocholesterol is converted to
previtamin D3, which is then thermally isomerized to vitamin D3.
2. Conversion:
o Liver: Vitamin D2 and D3 are converted to 25-hydroxyvitamin D (calcidiol)
in the liver.

1.
 o Kidneys: Calcidiol is further converted to 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D
(calcitriol), the active form of vitamin D, in the kidneys.

Biological Functions

 Calcium and Phosphate Homeostasis:

o Calcitriol regulates the absorption of calcium and phosphate in the intestines
and maintains bone mineralization.
 Bone Health:
o It promotes the growth and remodeling of bone by affecting osteoblast and
osteoclast activity.
 Immune Function:
o Vitamin D modulates immune responses and may reduce the risk of
autoimmune diseases.

Analytical Chemistry

Vitamin D can be analyzed using various methods:

 HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography): For separating and

quantifying vitamin D and its metabolites in biological samples.
 Mass Spectrometry: Used for precise identification and quantification of vitamin D
forms and metabolites.

Vitamin c

Chemical Structure

 Chemical Name: Ascorbic acid

 Chemical Formula: C₆H₈O₆
 Structure:
o Ascorbic acid is a six-carbon lactone derived from glucose. It contains a
double bond between the second and third carbons and has two enolic
hydroxyl groups (-OH) that are crucial for its antioxidant activity.

Properties

 Solubility: As a water-soluble vitamin, vitamin C is easily absorbed in the

gastrointestinal tract and is not stored in large amounts in the body.
 Stability: Ascorbic acid is sensitive to heat, light, and oxygen, which can lead to
degradation. Its stability is enhanced in acidic environments.

Biological Functions

1. Antioxidant Activity:
o Vitamin C acts as a potent antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative stress
by scavenging free radicals and reducing reactive oxygen species.
2. Collagen Synthesis:
 oIt is essential for the synthesis of collagen, a major structural protein in
connective tissues, skin, and blood vessels. Vitamin C acts as a cofactor for
enzymes involved in collagen formation.
3. Immune Function:
o Vitamin C enhances immune response by supporting various cellular functions
of the immune system, including the proliferation and activity of white blood
cells.
4. Iron Absorption:
o It improves the absorption of non-heme iron (the form of iron found in plant-
based foods) by reducing ferric iron (Fe³⁺) to ferrous iron (Fe²⁺), which is
more readily absorbed in the intestines.
5. Neurotransmitter Synthesis:
o Vitamin C is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, including
norepinephrine, which is important for brain function.

Metabolism

 Absorption: Vitamin C is absorbed in the intestines through active transport and

passive diffusion.
 Transport: It is transported in the bloodstream and taken up by various tissues,
including the liver, adrenal glands, and brain.

Deficiency

 Scurvy: A deficiency in vitamin C can lead to scurvy, characterized by symptoms

such as fatigue, swollen gums, joint pain, and impaired wound healing.

Analytical Chemistry

Vitamin C can be analyzed using various techniques:

 HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography): Commonly used to quantify

vitamin C in food and biological samples.
 Spectrophotometry: Utilizes the characteristic absorbance of ascorbic acid to
measure its concentration.

Vitamin e

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that functions primarily as an antioxidant. Here’s a detailed

overview of its chemistry and biological roles:

Chemical Structure

 Forms: Vitamin E comprises several compounds, but the two main classes are:
o Tocopherols: Includes alpha (α), beta (β), gamma (γ), and delta (δ)
tocopherol.
o Tocotrienols: Similar in structure but have unsaturated side chains.
 Chemical Formula:
o Alpha-Tocopherol: C₂₉H₄₈O₃
  Structure:
o The basic structure includes a chromanol ring (a six-membered aromatic ring
with a hydroxyl group) and a long isoprenoid side chain, which is responsible
for the fat-soluble nature of vitamin E.

Properties

 Solubility: As a fat-soluble vitamin, vitamin E is stored in body fat and is absorbed

along with dietary fats.
 Antioxidant Activity: The hydroxyl group on the chromanol ring allows vitamin E to
donate electrons, neutralizing free radicals and preventing oxidative damage to cell
membranes.

Biological Functions

1. Antioxidant Protection:
o Vitamin E protects cell membranes from oxidative stress by scavenging free
radicals and preventing lipid peroxidation.
2. Immune Function:
o It plays a role in immune responses, enhancing the function of immune cells
and possibly reducing the risk of infections.
3. Skin Health:
o Vitamin E is important for skin health, contributing to skin repair and
protection against UV damage.
4. Heart Health:
o By preventing oxidative damage to lipids, vitamin E may help reduce the risk
of cardiovascular diseases.
5. Gene Regulation:
o It can influence gene expression related to inflammation and lipid metabolism.

Metabolism

 Absorption: Vitamin E is absorbed in the intestines along with dietary fats and
requires bile salts for proper absorption.
 Transport: Once absorbed, it is transported in the bloodstream by lipoproteins and
can be stored in adipose tissue and the liver.

Vitamin k

Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin crucial for various biological processes, particularly blood
coagulation and bone metabolism. Here’s a detailed overview of its chemistry and functions:

Chemical Structure

 Forms: Vitamin K exists in two primary forms:

o Vitamin K1 (Phylloquinone): Found in green leafy vegetables.
 Chemical Formula: C₃₁H₄₅O₂
o Vitamin K2 (Menaquinone): Found in fermented foods and animal products,
with several subtypes (e.g., MK-4, MK-7).
  Chemical Formula: Varies by the length of the isoprenoid side chain
(e.g., MK-7 has seven isoprene units).
 Structure: Both forms have a naphthoquinone ring, which is essential for their
biological activity. The presence of a long hydrophobic side chain in menaquinones
allows for better absorption and storage in tissues.

Properties

 Solubility: As a fat-soluble vitamin, vitamin K is absorbed along with dietary fats and
stored in the liver and fatty tissues.
 Stability: Vitamin K is relatively stable under heat but can be degraded by strong
acids or bases.

Biological Functions

1. Blood Coagulation:
o Vitamin K is essential for synthesizing several proteins involved in blood
clotting (e.g., prothrombin). It acts as a cofactor for the enzyme gamma-
glutamyl carboxylase, which converts specific glutamic acid residues in these
proteins to gamma-carboxyglutamic acid (Gla), allowing them to bind calcium
ions and function properly.
2. Bone Metabolism:
o Vitamin K supports bone health by facilitating the synthesis of osteocalcin, a
protein that helps bind calcium to the bone matrix, contributing to bone
strength and density.
3. Vascular Health:
o It may help prevent arterial calcification by regulating matrix Gla protein
(MGP), which inhibits the deposition of calcium in blood vessels.

Metabolism

 Absorption: Vitamin K is absorbed in the intestines along with dietary fats, and bile
salts are necessary for its emulsification.
 Transport: Once absorbed, it is transported in the bloodstream by lipoproteins and
stored primarily in the liver.

Deficiency

 Symptoms: A deficiency can lead to bleeding disorders due to impaired blood

clotting, as well as weakened bones. Deficiency is relatively rare but can occur in
individuals with malabsorption disorders or those on long-term antibiotics, which can
affect gut bacteria that synthesize vitamin K2.

Toxicity

 Safety: Vitamin K is generally considered safe, with no known toxicity associated

with natural food sources. However, excessive supplementation should be approached
with caution, particularly in individuals on anticoagulant medications (e.g., warfarin),
as it can interfere with their effectiveness.
Analytical Chemistry

Vitamin K can be analyzed using methods such as:

 HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography): For separating and

quantifying vitamin K forms in food and biological samples.
 Mass Spectrometry: To accurately identify and quantify various menaquinones and
phylloquinone.

Conclusion

Vitamin K plays a vital role in blood clotting, bone health, and vascular function. Its
unique chemical properties facilitate these essential biological processes, making it a
crucial nutrient for overall health. If you have any specific questions or would like
more information about vitamin K, feel free to ask!.

Water-soluble vitamins are a group of vitamins that dissolve in water and are typically not
stored in large amounts in the body. They are essential for various physiological functions
and must be consumed regularly in the diet. Here’s an overview of the key characteristics,
functions, and examples of water-soluble vitamins:

Characteristics of Water-Soluble Vitamins

1. Solubility: As the name suggests, these vitamins dissolve in water, which affects their
absorption and transportation in the body.
2. Storage: They are not stored in significant amounts in the body. Excess amounts are
usually excreted through urine, which means a continuous supply from the diet is
necessary.
3. Cooking Effects: Water-soluble vitamins can be sensitive to heat, light, and air, and
can leach into cooking water. This means that food preparation methods can affect
their levels.

Functions and Importance

 Metabolism: Many water-soluble vitamins act as coenzymes or precursors for

enzymes involved in energy metabolism and other biochemical pathways.
 Antioxidant Role: Vitamins like C and certain B vitamins (e.g., B2) play crucial roles
in protecting cells from oxidative damage.
 Neurological Function: B vitamins are essential for maintaining nervous system
health and cognitive function.
 Blood Health: Some B vitamins (e.g., B6, B9, B12) are critical for the formation and
maintenance of red blood cells.

Deficiency

 Symptoms: Deficiencies in water-soluble vitamins can lead to various health issues,

such as scurvy (vitamin C deficiency), beriberi (thiamine deficiency), pellagra (niacin
deficiency), and anemia (B12 or folate deficiency).
Conclusion

Water-soluble vitamins are essential nutrients that support various bodily functions, from
energy metabolism to immune health. Regular consumption through a balanced diet is vital
for maintaining optimal health. If you have specific questions about any water-soluble
vitamin, feel free to ask!

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