Cobalamin: Absorption and Metabolism

The video tutorial explores Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, highlighting its unique structure with cobalt at its center. It discusses the limited but crucial roles of B12 in human metabolism, specifically in methionine synthase and methylmalonyl CoA mutase reactions. The video addresses the common deficiency of B12, especially among vegetarians and those consuming processed foods, and explains the complex absorption and metabolism process of B12 in the human body. The importance of B12 in DNA methylation and gene expression is also emphasized.

What is the correct name for vitamin B12?

What are the two notable reactions that use vitamin B12 in humans?

What serious health issue can arise from a deficiency in vitamin B12?

How does vitamin B12 deficiency particularly affect vegetarians and vegans?

How does the R group in cobalamin affect its function?

Describe the process of how vitamin B12 is released from dietary protein in the stomach.

What is the role of intrinsic factor in the absorption of vitamin B12?

What happens to vitamin B12 once it is absorbed into the enterocytes?

Explain the significance of the cobalt ion in the structure of cobalamin.

What is the function of methylmalonyl CoA mutase and how is it related to vitamin B12?