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Formaldehyde produced from d-ribose under neutral and alkaline conditions
Yujing Wang1, Chenggang Shi1, Yao Chen2
1State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, Institute of Biophysics, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
Toxicology Reports
|April 23, 2019
Summary
D-ribose, a common food supplement, can produce toxic formaldehyde in the body. Researchers found formaldehyde in mice brains after d-ribose injection, suggesting monitoring is needed for supplement users.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Toxicology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Formaldehyde is a toxic substance linked to serious health issues, including cancer and cognitive impairment.
- D-ribose is frequently consumed as a dietary supplement in foods and beverages.
- No prior research has established a link between d-ribose consumption and formaldehyde production.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether d-ribose can lead to the production of formaldehyde.
- To assess the in vivo impact of d-ribose on formaldehyde levels in the brain.
Main Methods:
- Incubation of d-ribose with amino acids (lysine, glycine) and buffer solutions (Tris-HCl) under varying pH conditions.
- Intraperitoneal injection of d-ribose into C57BL/6J mice.
- Measurement of formaldehyde concentrations in mouse brain tissue.
Main Results:
- Formaldehyde was detected when d-ribose was incubated with lysine or glycine, and in Tris-HCl buffer at neutral and alkaline pH.
- Mice injected with d-ribose exhibited significantly higher brain formaldehyde levels compared to control groups (d-glucose or saline).
- These findings demonstrate a direct relationship between d-ribose administration and increased formaldehyde levels.
Conclusions:
- D-ribose can be a source of formaldehyde production under specific physiological conditions.
- Elevated formaldehyde levels in the brain were observed following d-ribose supplementation in mice.
- Individuals consuming d-ribose supplements should consider monitoring their formaldehyde levels due to potential risks.
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