Riboflavin b2
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Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): Essential Roles and Applications
Introduction to Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
Riboflavin, commonly known as vitamin B2, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in maintaining human health. It is a precursor to the coenzymes flavin mononucleotide (FMN) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD), which are essential for various biochemical reactions in all living cells 123. Riboflavin is not synthesized endogenously in higher organisms, making dietary intake essential 5.
Riboflavin Production by Microorganisms
Microbial production of riboflavin has been extensively studied, with industrial strains such as Ashbya gossypii, Bacillus subtilis, and Candida spp. being optimized for higher yields through genetic and metabolic engineering 1. Advances in biotechnology have enabled the development of new microbial strains that can produce riboflavin more efficiently, which is crucial for its use as a nutritional supplement in both human and animal diets 1.
Riboflavin Deficiency and Immune Function
Riboflavin deficiency is common among young adults and the elderly, leading to impaired immune responses. Studies have shown that riboflavin deficiency can significantly reduce the oxidative burst capability of phagocytes, making individuals more susceptible to infections such as Listeria monocytogenes 2. Supplementation with riboflavin can restore the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in macrophages, thereby enhancing the immune response 2.
Riboflavin in Gut Microbiota
The human gut commensal Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis has been identified as a natural producer of riboflavin. Research has shown that certain strains can overproduce riboflavin, which can be beneficial when used as a functional food ingredient to enhance gut health 3. This microbial synthesis of riboflavin offers a promising avenue for dietary supplementation.
Riboflavin Transport and Metabolism
Riboflavin transport proteins, such as YpaA from Bacillus subtilis and PnuX from Corynebacterium glutamicum, play a vital role in riboflavin uptake. These proteins are integrated into the cytoplasmic membrane and are regulated by riboswitch mechanisms 4. Understanding these transport mechanisms is essential for developing strategies to enhance riboflavin bioavailability.
Clinical Implications of Riboflavin Deficiency
Riboflavin deficiency can lead to a range of health issues, including neuromuscular disorders, anemia, and cardiovascular diseases. The impairment of flavin homeostasis affects multiple physiological processes, highlighting the importance of adequate riboflavin intake 5. Early recognition and management of riboflavin deficiency are crucial for preventing these disorders.
Riboflavin and Migraine Prophylaxis
Riboflavin supplementation has been studied for its potential in migraine prophylaxis. Clinical trials have shown that riboflavin can reduce the frequency and duration of migraine attacks in adults without serious side effects 6. However, more research is needed to establish its efficacy in children and as an adjunct therapy.
Emerging Roles in Mitochondrial Function
Riboflavin plays a significant role in mitochondrial metabolism, particularly in fatty acid β-oxidation. Deficiency in riboflavin can impair the activity of enzymes involved in oxidative reactions, leading to metabolic disorders 7. Recent studies suggest that riboflavin supplementation can help restore mitochondrial function and improve metabolic health.
Conclusion
Riboflavin (vitamin B2) is an essential nutrient with diverse roles in human health, from supporting immune function to enhancing mitochondrial metabolism. Advances in microbial production and genetic engineering have made it more accessible as a nutritional supplement. Ensuring adequate riboflavin intake is crucial for preventing deficiency-related disorders and optimizing overall health.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Production of Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) by Microorganisms: An Overview
Optimizing riboflavin production in microorganisms through genetic and metabolic engineering can significantly increase their use in nutritional supplements.
Highly CitedRiboflavin (vitamin B2) deficiency impairs NADPH oxidase 2 (Nox2) priming and defense against Listeria monocytogenes
Acute riboflavin deficiency impairs the priming of Nox2, reducing phagocytic immune response and increasing susceptibility to Listeria monocytogenes infection.
Non-RCT
Animal StudyRiboflavin Biosynthesis and Overproduction by a Derivative of the Human Gut Commensal Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis ATCC 15697
A mutant of the human gut commensal Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis ATCC 15697 can produce riboflavin, increasing vitamin B2 concentration in a fecal fermentation system, offering potential as a functional food ingredient.
Characterization of Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) Transport Proteins from Bacillus subtilis and Corynebacterium glutamicum
Riboflavin transport proteins YpaA from Bacillus subtilis and PnuX from Corynebacterium glutamicum play distinct roles in riboflavin uptake, with YpaA requiring metabolic energy for substrate translocation and PnuX not being energy-dependent.
Highly CitedDisorders of riboflavin metabolism
Riboflavin metabolism disorders can lead to multisystem dysfunction, including neuromuscular disorders, anaemia, abnormal fetal development, and cardiovascular disease, and early recognition and management are crucial.
Highly CitedSupplementation with Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) for Migraine Prophylaxis in Adults and Children: A Review.
Riboflavin supplementation is a safe and well-tolerated option for reducing migraine symptoms in adults, but more evidence is needed to recommend its use as an adjunct therapy for both adults and children with migraine.
Systematic ReviewEmerging roles for riboflavin in functional rescue of mitochondrial β-oxidation flavoenzymes.
Riboflavin supplementation may help restore mitochondrial -oxidation function and improve metabolic health in metabolic diseases.
Highly CitedRiboflavin in innate and acquired immune responses
Riboflavin administration reduces innate immune response to olive oil but does not affect acquired immune responsiveness.
Non-RCTAnimal Study