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In vitro binding of folates by body fluids
British Journal of Haematology
|January 1, 1976
Summary
This study investigated unsaturated folate binders in human serum and urine. Results indicate minimal macromolecular binding of folic acid and N-5-methyl tetrahydrofolic acid, suggesting low in vivo significance.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Clinical Chemistry
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Differentiating saturated (endogenous folate) and unsaturated folate binders in serum is crucial.
- Unsaturated binders may be in vitro artifacts, especially with non-physiological folates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess macromolecular binding of folic acid (PteGlu) and N-5-methyl tetrahydrofolic acid (CH3H4PteGlu) in human serum and urine.
- To investigate the potential in vivo significance of unsaturated folate binders.
Main Methods:
- Radio-labeled folic acid and N-5-methyl tetrahydrofolic acid were used.
- Techniques included saline dialysis, charcoal adsorption, DEAE-Sephadex A-50 chromatography, and sucrose gradient analysis.
Main Results:
- Minimal to absent binding was observed across all methods.
- Charcoal adsorption showed low mean serum binding capacities for both folates.
- Pregnancy and folate deficiency showed slightly altered, but still low, binding values.
- Urinary and red cell folate binding were also minimal.
Conclusions:
- Macromolecular binding of folic acid and N-5-methyl tetrahydrofolic acid in human serum and urine is minimal.
- The findings suggest that unsaturated folate binders have limited in vivo relevance.