B-Vitamins and Human Health

B-vitamins are a group of water soluble vitamins that play significant roles in cell metabolism and synthesis of red blood cells. There are eight B-vitamins, namely, B1 (thiamin), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), B9 (folate [folic acid]), and B12 (cobalamin). Vitamin B9 and vitamin B12 are essential water-soluble vitamins that perform pivotal function in the maintenance of one-carbon metabolism. The one carbon metabolism is a set of interconnected metabolic pathways driven by folate and methionine. It generates methyl groups for use in DNA synthesis, amino acid homeostasis, antioxidant generation, and epigenetic regulation. Developmental defects, impaired cognitive function, or blocked normal blood production are some of the possible outcomes associated with a diet deficient in vitamins B9 and B12. It has been observed in certain studies that higher levels of these vitamins may lead to immune dysfunction, cancer, or increased mortality. Research in B-vitamins is now primarily focused on developing specific therapies that target one-carbon metabolism for managing cancer and immune diseases. This book includes some of the vital pieces of works being conducted across the world, on various topics related to B-vitamins and their role in human health. Students, researchers, experts and all associated with this area of study will benefit alike from this book.