The Sound of Evolution
Cyanocobalamin
Mechanism of action:
Cyanocobalamin is a synthetic form of vitamin B₁₂ and belongs to the cobalamin compounds. Cyanocobalamin itself is a stable precursor of vitamin B₁₂ and is converted in the body into two biologically active coenzyme forms: methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin. Methylcobalamin serves as a coenzyme for methionine synthase and is involved in DNA synthesis and red blood cell maturation. Adenosylcobalamin serves as a coenzyme for methylmalonyl coenzyme-A mutase and is involved in fatty acid and amino acid metabolism.
Reference(s):
1. Wickramasinghe SN et al. (1995). Morphology, biology and biochemistry of cobalamin- and folate-deficient bone marrow cells. Baillieres Clin Haematol.
2. Sharabi A et al. (2003). Replacement therapy for vitamin B12 deficiency: comparison between the sublingual and oral route. Br J Clin Pharmacol.
3. Hall AH et al. (1987). Hydroxycobalamin/sodium thiosulfate as a cyanide antidote. J Emerg Med.