Biotin

Biotin: Functions

The individual biotin-dependent carboxylases – pyruvate, propionyl-CoA, 3-methylcrotonyl-CoA, and acetyl-CoA carboxylase – are essential for gluconeogenesis, fatty acid synthesis, and amino acid degradation, respectively.The proteolytic degradation of these holocarboxylases in the gastrointestinal tract produces biotin-containing peptides, including the significant biocytin. This is subsequently converted back into biotin by the enzyme biotinidase, which is present in … Biotin: Functions

Biotin: Symptoms of Deficiency

Symptoms of biotin deficiency include: Alopecia (hair loss) Scaly redness around the eyes, nose, mouth and external genitalia. Neurological symptoms such as depression, listlessness, hallucinations – furthermore drowsiness and tingling in arms and legs. Individuals with hereditary disorders of biotin metabolism are additionally at risk of a disturbed immune system, so bacterial infections and mycoses … Biotin: Symptoms of Deficiency

Biotin: Risk Groups

Risk groups for biotin deficiency include individuals with: Chronic hemodialysis Chronic gastrointestinal diseases Chronic alcohol abuse Under anticonvulsant treatment Taking certain antiepileptic drugs – primidone, carbamazepine (inhibit intestinal biotin uptake and displace biotin from its binding to biotinidase). Possibly pregnant women

Biotin: Safety Assessment

The United Kingdom Expert Group on Vitamins and Minerals (EVM) last assessed vitamins and minerals for safety in 2003 and set a so-called Safe Upper Level (SUL) or Guidance Level for each micronutrient, provided sufficient data were available. This SUL or Guidance Level reflects the safe maximum amount of a micronutrient that will not cause … Biotin: Safety Assessment

Biotin: Supply Situation

Biotin was not included in the National Nutrition Survey II (2008). Regarding the intake of biotin in the German population, data exist from the 2004 Nutrition Report of the German Nutrition Society (DGE). These data on biotin intake are based on estimates and only reflect the average intake. No statements can be made about the … Biotin: Supply Situation

Biotin: Supply

The intake recommendations (D-A-CH reference values) of the German Nutrition Society (DGE) presented below are aimed at healthy people of normal weight. They do not refer to the supply of sick and convalescent people. Individual requirements may therefore be higher than the DGE recommendations (e.g. due to diet, consumption of stimulants, long-term medication, etc.). Furthermore, … Biotin: Supply