Minerals Flashcards
What are folate’s functions?
Precursor of THF; coenzyme involved in generating DNA precursors and protein synthesis
What are three defects associated with folate deficiency?
Neural tube defects in newborns; macrocytic anemia; hyperhomocysteinemia (cardiovascular risk)
Who is susceptible to folate deficiency?
Pregnant women; elderly (absorption problem); alcoholics; patients with long-term drug treatments; people with genetic polymorphisms in folate metabolism
When is folate demand highest?
Pregnancy; lactation
What can lower risk of folate deficiency?
Grain products enriched with folate; folate supplements
What is cobalamin involved in?
Methionine synthesis; conversion of methylmalonyl CoA to succinyl CoA; folate metabolism!!
What is the main consequence of B12 deficiency? How is it different from B9 deficiency?
It is also macrocytic anemia, but you also see demyelination
Who is susceptible to B12 deficiency?
Elderly, people with malabsorption diseases, vegetarians
What does B12 contain? How does it get absorbed?
A cobalt; it must be released from protein by acid hydrolysis and be absorbed in ileum by combining with intrinsic factor
With the folate trap, what two things can you not make for DNA synthesis, contributing to the megaloblastic anemia with B12 deficiency?
dTMP and purine ring, so not enough DNA to continue replication as a RBC would normally get smaller
What does pernicious anemia refer to?
A B12-deficient anemia arising from lack of intrinsic factor
What four macrominerals does Kane cover?
Ca, P, S, Mg
What is calcium involved in?
Major component of Bone; Signaling, Coagulation (localize clots), Muscle contraction, Neurotransmission
Calcium deficiency is characterized by what?
Mild: muscle cramps, osteoporosis; severe: rickets
Who is susceptible to Ca deficiency?
Elderly, adult women, children
Where is most of calcium found? What is the basic mineral component?
98% in bone and teeth; hydroxyapatite
What is the body’s calcium reservoir?
Bone, if serum levels are insufficient
What do low serum calcium levels enhance?
Intestinal absorption and bone resorption
To prevent osteoporosis, what do people need regarding calcium intake?
Need to take in calcium when bone is reaching maximum density
What does Mg do?
Essential for many ATPases; present at high levels in bone