Reduction Reaction of Folic acid and Uses

 The reduction reaction of folic acid is typically catalyzed by the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), leading to the formation of dihydrofolic acid and subsequently tetrahydrofolic acid (THF). The reaction occurs in two steps:

1. Reduction of Folic Acid to Dihydrofolic Acid:

   $$\text{Folic acid}+\text{NADPH}+{\text{H}}^{+}⟶\text{Dihydrofolic acid}+{\text{NADP}}^{+}$$

2. Further Reduction of Dihydrofolic Acid to Tetrahydrofolic Acid:

   $$\text{Dihydrofolic acid}+\text{NADPH}+{\text{H}}^{+}⟶\text{Tetrahydrofolic acid (THF)}+{\text{NADP}}^{+}$$

Tetrahydrofolic acid (THF) is the biologically active form of folic acid and plays a crucial role in various metabolic processes.

Uses of Folic Acid:

1. Prevention of Neural Tube Defects: Folic acid supplementation in pregnant women reduces the risk of neural tube defects in newborns.
2. DNA Synthesis and Repair: Folic acid is essential for the synthesis, repair, and methylation of DNA.
3. Amino Acid Metabolism: THF acts as a coenzyme in the metabolism of amino acids like methionine and histidine.
4. Red Blood Cell Formation: It is important for the formation and maturation of red blood cells, preventing anemia.
5. Cancer Treatment (Methotrexate): Methotrexate, a folic acid antagonist, is used in chemotherapy to inhibit DHFR and prevent DNA synthesis in cancer cells.