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Fumio Watanabe1, Tomohiro Bito1

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Vitamin B12 is synthesized by microbes, not plants or animals. Humans obtain this essential nutrient primarily from animal products like meat and milk, due to microbial synthesis and accumulation in animal tissues.

Keywords:
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Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Nutritional Science
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient not synthesized by plants or animals.
  • Certain bacteria and archaea are the primary producers of Vitamin B12.
  • Vitamin B12 accumulates in animal tissues and some plant/fungal species through microbial interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current knowledge on Vitamin B12 sources and bioavailability.
  • To highlight the crucial role of microbial interactions in Vitamin B12 production and transfer.
  • To inform strategies for preventing Vitamin B12 deficiency, particularly in at-risk populations.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of scientific publications on Vitamin B12 synthesis, sources, and bioavailability.
  • Analysis of microbial interactions and symbiotic relationships involved in Vitamin B12 metabolism.
  • Synthesis of information regarding dietary sources and factors affecting Vitamin B12 absorption.

Main Results:

  • Vitamin B12 is exclusively synthesized by specific microorganisms.
  • Herbivorous ruminants and fish are significant dietary sources of Vitamin B12 for humans.
  • Edible plants and mushrooms contain limited Vitamin B12, primarily from associated bacteria.

Conclusions:

  • Human Vitamin B12 status relies heavily on microbial synthesis and transfer through food chains.
  • Understanding microbial B12 production is key to addressing dietary deficiencies.
  • Dietary recommendations should consider the microbial origins of Vitamin B12 in food sources.