UNDER REVIEW (September 2016)
Mechanism of Action:
Folic acid replenishes body stores of folic acid which are required for the successful formation of red blood cells. Deficiency leads to anaemia (Hb<100 g/litre) characterised by macrocytosis i.e. large red blood cells of mean cell volume > 100 fl. This situation is often referred to as ‘megaloblastic anaemia’.
UNDER REVIEW (September 2016)
Mechanism of Action:
Thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP) is a coenzyme for pyruvate dehydrogenase, α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase and transketolase. The first two of these enzymes function in the metabolism of carbohydrates, while transketolase functions in the pentose phosphate pathway to synthesize NADPH and the pentose sugars deoxyribose and ribose. Systemic thiamine deficiency can lead to myriad problems including neurodegeneration, wasting, and death. Well-known syndromes caused by lack of thiamine due to malnutrition or a diet high in thiaminase-rich foods include Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome and beriberi, diseases also common in chronic abusers of alcohol.
Lecture and CAL materials:
UNDER REVIEW (September 2016)
Mechanism of Action:
Calcium is a key mineral required for bone formation (also heart, muscles and nerves). Inadequate calcium content in the bone leads to osteoporosis.
Lecture and CAL material:
UNDER REVIEW (September 2016)
Mechanism of Action:
Vitamin D stimulates calcium and phosphate uptake in the gastrointestinal tract and decreases calcium excretion at the kidney.
Lecture and CAL materials:
UNDER REVIEW (April 2017)
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