LYCOS RETRIEVER 
Vitamin C: Cells
built 270 days ago
Stating that only the last enzyme is missing for the pathway to convert glucose to vitamin C might imply to the untrained individual that there is a biochemical pathway that leads to a dead end. Actually, the biochemical pathway that leads to the synthesis of vitamin C in rats ... leads to the formation of five-carbon sugars in the pentose phosphate pathway present in virtually all animals (Linster and Van Schaftingen 2007). There are several metabolic intermediates in this pathway illustrating that these substances can be used as precursors for many compounds in the cell. In the pentose phosphate pathway, five-carbon sugars are made from glucose (a six-carbon sugar) to be used in the synthesis of DNA, RNA, and many energy producing substances such as ATP and NADPH (Garrett 1999). Animals that synthesize vitamin C can use both pathways illustrated in the simplified diagram below. Humans and the other animals "less fortunate" than rats only use the pentose phosphate pathway.
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When taken daily, vitamin C protects gum tissue against cell damage and speeds healing in this delicate area. It's often taken with flavonoids for this purpose. Brushing the gums with vitamin C powder can ... minimize inflammation and bleeding. (3)
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Active transport is the main mechanism of vitamin C distribution within the body. Simple diffusion may occur in the mouth and stomach but accounts for only a very small percentage of uptake (13). Sodium-independent transport systems shuttle vitamin C across the basolateral membrane of the intestinal cells. In the plasma absorbed ascorbic and dehydroascorbate (DHAA) can either be transported freely or be bound to albumin. Ascorbate can ... move into body cells and tissues (13). As previously mentioned DHAA is the primary form of vitamin C that crosses cellular membranes.
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Vitamin E is the most important antioxidant in the body that protects cell membranes and prevents damage to membrane-associated enzymes. It can be found in vegetable oils, especially sunflower oil, whole grains such as wheat germ, brown rice and oats, as well as nuts, dairy products and meats.
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