Biotin Functions

Biotin plays a key role in the metabolism of lipids, proteins and carbohydrates. It acts as a critical coenzyme of four carboxylases (enzymes):

acetyl-CoA carboxylase (involved in the synthesis of fatty acids from acetate)

propionyl-CoA carboxylase (involved in gluconeogenesis, i.e. the generation of glucose from lactate, glycerol, and amino acids)

b-methylcrotonyl-CoA carboxylase (necessary for the metabolism of leucin, an essential amino acid)

pyruvate carboxylase (involved in energy metabolism, necessary for the metabolism of amino acids, cholesterol, and odd chain fatty acids)

Biotin also plays a special role in enabling the body to use blood glucose as a major source of energy for body fluids. Furthermore, biotin may have a role in DNA replication and transcription arising from its interaction with nuclear histone proteins. It owes its reputation as the “beauty vitamin” to the fact that it activates protein/amino acid metabolism in the hair roots and fingernail cells.

 

 

Mainfunctions in a nutshell: Synthesis of fatty acids, amino acids and glucose Energy metabolism Excretion of by-products from protein metabolism Maintenance of healthy hair, toenails and fingernails