Serum vitamin B12

Serum Vitamin B12

Serum Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in the normal functioning of the brain and nervous system, and the formation of red blood cells. It is one of eight B vitamins and is involved in the metabolism of every cell of the human body, particularly affecting DNA synthesis and regulation, as well as fatty acid and amino acid metabolism.

Function

Vitamin B12 is required for proper red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. It functions as a cofactor for methionine synthase and L-methylmalonyl-CoA mutase. Methionine synthase catalyzes the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, which is required for the formation of S-adenosylmethionine, a universal methyl donor for almost 100 different substrates, including DNA, RNA, hormones, proteins, and lipids.

Deficiency

Vitamin B12 deficiency can potentially cause severe and irreversible damage, especially to the brain and nervous system. At levels only slightly lower than normal, a range of symptoms such as fatigue, depression, and poor memory may be experienced. Vitamin B12 deficiency can also cause symptoms of mania and psychosis.

Measurement

Serum vitamin B12 levels are tested to check for a deficiency in the vitamin. The normal range for vitamin B12 can vary slightly depending on the lab. But a typical range for adults is 200 to 900 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL).

Sources

Vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal products, including fish, meat, poultry, eggs, milk, and milk products. It is generally not present in plant foods, but fortified breakfast cereals are a readily available source of vitamin B12 with high bioavailability for vegetarians.

See Also

• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• Megaloblastic anemia
• Pernicious anemia

References

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