P-aminobenzoic acid is an organic carboxylic acid. Although it does not actually belong to the group of vitamins, it is classified as one of the B vitamins and also bears the name vitamin B10.
What is p-aminobenzoic acid?
The p-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) is also known as para-aminobenzoic acid, 4-aminobenzoic acid, p-carboxyaniline or vitamin B10. The weak organic carboxylic acid is an extremely important building block of folic acid (vitamin B9). It stimulates the growth of the human body. Folic acid belongs to the group of B vitamins. Therefore, PABA is classified in this group, which is not correct. Para-aminobenzoic acid can be found in numerous medical products, food supplements and cosmetics. Among the properties of p-aminobenzoic acid is that it produces colorless crystals that dissolve in hot water, glacial acetic acid, ether, and ethanol. When exposed to light or air, a slight reddish-yellow discoloration occurs. For bacteria, para-aminobenzoic acid is eminently important because it forms a significant growth substance for the synthesis of folic acid.
Function, effects, and roles
Although p-aminobenzoic acid is not recognized as a B vitamin, it is included in the group of B vitamins and classified among the vitaminoids, which are vitamin-like substances. Together with vitamin B5, it forms the basis for inositol synthesis. PABA is considered a proven substance for skin protection and cell protection. Therefore, the acid is often described as a beauty vitamin. In the case of pigment disorders of the skin such as vitiligo (white spot disease), the intake of para-aminobenzoic acid can be helpful. Thus, vitamin B10 is primarily located in the skin cells and participates in the formation of pigment there. It also makes sense to take PABA if you have a red face and to maintain strong healthy hair, as the vitaminoid counteracts premature gray hair. Vitamin B10 also belongs to the group of antioxidants and provides protection of the organism against solar radiation. In this way, p-aminobenzoic acid even prevents skin cancer. At the same time, it keeps the skin supple and soft. In addition, PABA can accelerate the healing of burns. The concentration of PABA within the skin cells causes a reaction with special protective substances during intense sun exposure. This results in the filtering out of UV rays that can cause sunburn. Since para-aminobenzoic acid is one of the components of folic acid, it fulfills numerous useful functions. These include protecting the intestinal walls and stimulating the intestinal flora. As a coenzyme, PABA is involved in the formation of red blood cells (erythrocytes) and in protein utilization. In case of sensitivity to gluten, the vitaminoid can counteract unpleasant gastrointestinal reactions. Within the respiratory system, PABA serves to protect against ozone damage. In the cardiovascular system, it promotes the production of red blood cells. In addition, para-aminobenzoic acid stabilizes cell membranes.
Formation, occurrence, properties and optimal values
PABA is an aromatic hydrocarbon compound. Its molecular formula is C7H7NO2. Biosynthesis occurs through a reaction that occurs between chorismic acid and glutamate. In the case of oral absorption of para-aminobenzoic acid, metallization into para-aminohippuric acid occurs. Through the skin, absorption is minor. Resorption of PABA occurs in the small intestine. Metabolism occurs in the liver. Via the kidneys, p-aminobenzoic acid passes out of the human body again. There are also some foods that contain the important vitamin B10. These include primarily cereals from whole grains, kidney, chicken liver and brewer’s yeast. The p-aminobenzoic acid is also found in Brussels sprouts and soybeans. Although PABA is classified as a non-essential nutrient, para-aminobenzoic acid is nevertheless essential for the human organism. However, because the body is quite capable of producing sufficient amounts of PABA itself, it is classified as “non-essential”. Nevertheless, in some cases a deficiency of vitamin B10 may occur. According to the recommendations of the German Nutrition Society (DGE), a person needs 150 µg of the vitaminoid per day. If there is high blood pressure, even one and a half times this dose is considered reasonable.
Diseases and disorders
A deficiency of para-aminobenzoic acid can lead to adverse health effects. For example, affected individuals often suffer from depression, eczema, premature graying of hair, fatigue, and headaches. Furthermore, they are prone to repeated sunburns, butterfly lichen (lupus), scleroderma and disorders of blood formation. Other symptoms include anemia (anemia), severe fatigue, digestive problems such as constipation, nervousness and vertiligo. Similarly, certain drugs can be affected by PABA. For example, sulfonamides, which are used in antibiotics, are impaired in their positive effect. PABA is also frequently used in the treatment of diseases. For example, it is considered a supportive agent in the therapy of various autoimmune diseases. For example, in the case of lupus erythematosus, vitamin B10 reduces skin lesions. Para-aminobenzoic acid is also considered helpful in scleroderma, in which hardening of the conjunctiva occurs. In this disease, it reduces stiffening of the skin and conjunctiva. The positive effect of PABA has been proven by several studies. Vitamin B10 is also used medicinally in sunscreens, locally acting anesthetics and azo dyes. PABA is also considered a beauty vitamin because it counteracts the aging process. It prevents the formation of gray hair and wrinkles. The p-aminobenzoic acid is classified as slightly toxic. However, there is no carcinogenic effect, which was assumed for some time.
