cellular response to folic acid

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

Any process that results in a change in state or activity of a cell (in terms of movement, secretion, enzyme production, gene expression, etc.) as a result of a folic acid stimulus. [GOC:mah]

Cellular response to folic acid is a complex and crucial process involving multiple steps, starting with the uptake of folic acid from the diet or supplements. Folic acid, in its oxidized form, enters the cell through the Reduced Folate Carrier (RFC) protein. Once inside, folic acid undergoes enzymatic reduction by dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) to tetrahydrofolic acid (THF), the active coenzyme form. THF is essential for various metabolic pathways, including purine and pyrimidine synthesis, required for DNA and RNA replication and repair. THF also acts as a cofactor for enzymes involved in amino acid metabolism, including methionine synthase, which catalyzes the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, a crucial step in the synthesis of S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), a universal methyl donor. The methylation reactions involving SAM are vital for various cellular processes, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and protein synthesis. Moreover, THF participates in the conversion of dihydrofolate to tetrahydrofolate, a key step in the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines, necessary for DNA and RNA synthesis. These processes ensure proper cell growth, division, and differentiation. Ultimately, cellular response to folic acid is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis, DNA integrity, and overall cell function.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (4)