Ascorbic acid

Synonym: Vitamin C

1 Definition

Ascorbic acid is a non-B-complex water soluble vitamin.

2 Structure

Constitutional formula: C6H8O6

3 Biochemichal role

In the case of ascorbic acid the vitamin form is the active form. Vitamin C is an antioxidant and acts as a coenzyme in hydroxylation and reduction reactions.

Vitamin C dependent processes:

• Collagen synthesis
• Catecholamine synthesis (convertion of dopamin to noradrenalin)
• Bile acid synthesis
• amino acids synthesis (f.e. tyrosine)
• controls the absorption of iron in the intestine
• helps reconversion of methemoglobin to hemoglobin

4 Requirement

60-70mg/day

5 Deficiency

Vitamin C deficiency leads to a disease called scurvy. The symptoms of scurvy are related to a lack of collagen (e.g. loss of teeth, fragile blood vessels).

6 Source

Tiberiu Nistor - Basic in descriptive biochemistry