Target type: biologicalprocess
The process in which L-ascorbic acid is transported across a lipid bilayer, from one side of a membrane to the other. L-ascorbate, (2R)-2-[(1S)-1,2-dihydroxyethyl]-4-hydroxy-5-oxo-2,5-dihydrofuran-3-olate, is vitamin C and has co-factor and anti-oxidant activities in many species. [GOC:ai]
L-ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for many biological processes, including collagen synthesis, immune function, and antioxidant defense. It cannot be synthesized by humans and must be obtained from the diet. L-ascorbic acid is transported across cell membranes by specialized transporters, which are proteins embedded in the cell membrane that facilitate the movement of molecules across the membrane. There are several different L-ascorbic acid transporters, and they differ in their expression patterns, substrate specificity, and transport mechanisms. One of the most important L-ascorbic acid transporters is the sodium-dependent vitamin C transporter (SVCT) family. These transporters are found in the small intestine, where they are responsible for the absorption of L-ascorbic acid from the diet. SVCTs also play a role in the transport of L-ascorbic acid across the blood-brain barrier, which protects the brain from harmful substances. The SVCTs transport L-ascorbic acid via a sodium-dependent mechanism, meaning that they require the presence of sodium ions to transport L-ascorbic acid across the membrane. This transport process is highly specific for L-ascorbic acid, and it is not affected by other sugars or vitamins. In addition to the SVCTs, there are other L-ascorbic acid transporters, such as the glucose transporter family (GLUTs). These transporters are less specific for L-ascorbic acid and can transport other sugars, such as glucose. However, they are important for the transport of L-ascorbic acid in certain tissues, such as the brain and kidneys. The transport of L-ascorbic acid across cell membranes is crucial for maintaining adequate levels of this essential vitamin in the body. Deficiencies in L-ascorbic acid can lead to scurvy, a disease characterized by fatigue, weakness, and bleeding gums. Therefore, it is important to consume adequate amounts of L-ascorbic acid through the diet or by taking supplements.'
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| Protein | Definition | Taxonomy |
|---|---|---|
| Solute carrier family 23 member 1 | A solute carrier family 23 member 1 that is encoded in the genome of human. [PRO:DNx, UniProtKB:Q9UHI7] | Homo sapiens (human) |
| Compound | Definition | Classes | Roles |
|---|---|---|---|
| ascorbic acid | Ascorbic Acid: A six carbon compound related to glucose. It is found naturally in citrus fruits and many vegetables. Ascorbic acid is an essential nutrient in human diets, and necessary to maintain connective tissue and bone. Its biologically active form, vitamin C, functions as a reducing agent and coenzyme in several metabolic pathways. Vitamin C is considered an antioxidant. L-ascorbate : The L-enantiomer of ascorbate and conjugate base of L-ascorbic acid, arising from selective deprotonation of the 3-hydroxy group. Required for a range of essential metabolic reactions in all animals and plants. L-ascorbic acid : The L-enantiomer of ascorbic acid and conjugate acid of L-ascorbate. vitamin C : Any member of a group of vitamers that belong to the chemical structural class called butenolides that exhibit biological activity against vitamin C deficiency in animals. The vitamers include L-ascorbic acid and its salt, ionized and oxidized forms. | ascorbic acid; vitamin C | coenzyme; cofactor; flour treatment agent; food antioxidant; food colour retention agent; geroprotector; plant metabolite; skin lightening agent |