Structures and uses of Vitamin B1 B2 B3 and B6

 

1. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)

• Chemical Structure:
• Thiamine has a pyrimidine ring and a thiazole ring linked by a methylene bridge.
• Structure Formula: C₁₂H₁₇N₄OS⁺

• Uses:
  • Essential for glucose metabolism.
  • Supports the nervous system and muscle function.
  • Deficiency leads to beriberi, which affects the cardiovascular and nervous systems.

2. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

• Chemical Structure:
• Riboflavin consists of a flavin ring (isoalloxazine) attached to a ribitol sugar.
• Structure Formula: C₁₇H₂₀N₄O₆

• Uses:
  • Acts as a coenzyme (FAD and FMN) in various redox reactions.
  • Important for energy production and metabolism of fats, drugs, and steroids.
  • Deficiency can cause ariboflavinosis, which includes symptoms like cracked lips and sore throat.

3. Vitamin B3 (Niacin or Nicotinic Acid)

• Chemical Structure:
• Niacin is a pyridine-3-carboxylic acid.
• Structure Formula: C₆H₅NO₂

• Uses:
  • Plays a role in DNA repair and the production of steroid hormones.
  • Converts into NAD⁺ and NADP⁺, crucial for metabolic processes.
  • Deficiency results in pellagra, characterized by dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia.

4. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)

• Chemical Structure:
• Pyridoxine contains a pyridine ring with various functional groups at different positions.
• Structure Formula: C₈H₁₁NO₃

• Uses:
  • Vital for amino acid metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis (like serotonin and dopamine), and red blood cell production.
  • Deficiency can lead to symptoms such as depression, irritability, and confusion.

These vitamins are collectively important for various biochemical processes in the body, including energy production, nervous system function, and red blood cell formation.