Inositol

Inositol is a biological molecule that plays an important role as a second messenger in a cell, in the form of inositol phosphates.

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It is involved in :

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• cytoskeleton assembly;
• nerve guidance (Epsin);
• controlling intracellular calcium (Ca²⁺) concentration;
• maintaining membrane potential of the cell.

It is also involved in the breakdown of fats and to reduce blood cholesterol.

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Some preliminary results of studies on inositol supplements show promising results for people suffering from problems such as obsessive compulsive disorder.

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It is used as a component of energy drinks. However, several studies show that it has no effect at all.

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The chemical formula of inositol is C6O6H12. There are 9 isomers, all of which are called inositol.

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The inositol ring is in the chair conformation. The 1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th hydroxyls are positioned equatorially to the plane of the ring, while the 2nd hydroxyl group is positioned axially to the plane of the ring.

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It is classified as a member of the vitamin B complex, though it is not considered a vitamin per se, since the human body can synthetize it.

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See also

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• myo-inositol (inositol monophosphate).
• inositol pentakisphosphate
Inositol: External link ►



 

Second messenger: In biology, second messengers are low-weight diffusible molecules that are used in signal transduction to relay a signal within a cell. They are synthesized or released by specific enzymatic reactions, usually as a result of an external signal that was received by a...

Cell: A cell is a single unit or compartment, enclosed by a border or wall. A cell is usually part of a larger structure. More specific meanings depend on the context in which the work is used....

Inositol phosphate: Inositol phosphates are a group of mono- to polyphosphorylated inositols. They play crucial roles in diverse cellular functions, such as cell growth, apoptosis, cell migration, endocytosis, and cell differentiation....