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Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid)

Pantothenic acid, (+)-(R)-3-(2,4-Dihydroxy-3,3-dimethylbutyramido)propionic acid, is an optically active organic acid and biological activity is characteristic only of the d isomer. The vitamin functions in the body following its incorporation into Coenzyme A. Pantothenic acid is a member of the B complex vitamins and is sometimes referred to as vitamin B5. Pantothenic acid is a commercially significant product which is used in cosmetics, medicine, human nourishment and in animal nourishment. Vitamin B5 participates in the release of energy from carbohydrates, fats and protein, aids in the utilization of vitamins; improves the body's resistance to stress; helps in cell building and the development of the central nervous system; helps the adrenal glands, fights infections by building antibodies. Vitamin B5 plays an important role in the secretion of hormones, such as cortisone. Pantothenic acid is important for the production of adrenal gland hormones, increases overall energy, and helps convert food into energy. Pantothenic acid is also used in the release of energy as well as the metabolism of fat, protein and carbohydrates. It is used in the creation of lipids, neurotransmitters, steroid hormones and hemoglobin. Coenzyme A, the physiological active form of pantothenic acid, serves as a cofactor for a variety of enzyme-catalyzed reactions involving transfer of acetyl groups; the precursor fragments of various lengths are bound to the sulfhydryl group of coenzyme A. Such reactions are important in the oxidative metabolism of carbohydrates, gluconeogenesis, synthesis and degradation of fatty acids, and the synthesis of sterols, steroid hormones, and porphyrins. The coenzyme A complex also has a major role in the acetylation and acylation of numerous proteins. After incorporation into coenzyme A (CoA), it participates in the synthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol and sterols. Through its participation in the Krebs cycle, coenzyme CoA is also instrumental in the generation of energy by the cells. Pantothenic acid is hence essential for epithelial regeneration and development in the event of skin damage when a high rate of lipid synthesis and cellular renewal is needed. Pantothenic acid is also essential in producing, transporting, and releasing energy from fats. Synthesis of cholesterol (needed for vitamin D and hormone synthesis) depends on pantothenic acid. Pantothenic acid also activates the adrenal glands. Pantethine--a variation of pantothenic acid--has been reported to lower blood levels of cholesterol and triglycerides. Generally, in multi-vitamin and mineral supplement formulations, pantothenic acid is in the form of d-calcium pantothenate. Pantothenic acid deficiency symptoms include skin abnormalities, retarded growth, dizzy spells, digestive disturbances, vomiting, restlessness, stomach stress, muscle cramps. Consequences of low levels include frequent infection, fatigue, abdominal pains, sleep disturbances and neurological disorders including numbness, paresthesia, muscle weakness and cramps are also possible indications that this nutrient is in short supply.

Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) categories

Calcium pantothenate

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