Ribose Intake as Food Integrator: Is It a Really Convenient Practice?
Roberta Moschini1,2, Francesco Balestri1,2, Mario Cappiello1,2
1Biochemistry Unit, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via San Zeno, 51, 56127 Pisa, Italy.
Biomolecules
|December 23, 2022
Summary
D-ribose is suggested as an energy supplement, but potential risks are underestimated. This sugar may negatively impact ATP production and cause cytotoxic effects due to glycation.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Nutritional Science
- Metabolic pathways
Background:
- D-ribose is proposed as an energy supplement for healthy individuals based on its benefits in cardiovascular and muscle stress.
- Existing literature may overlook potential adverse effects of free D-ribose supplementation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the potential risks and critical issues associated with using D-ribose as a general energizing food supplement.
- To emphasize the underappreciated negative effects of D-ribose, particularly concerning its metabolic fate and cytotoxic potential.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on D-ribose metabolism and effects.
- Analysis of the biochemical consequences of free D-ribose administration.
- Assessment of the glycation potential of D-ribose and its implications.
Main Results:
- Free D-ribose administration can disrupt normal ATP production by forcing ribose-5-phosphate into the pentose phosphate pathway.
- D-ribose exhibits significant glycation capacity, leading to predictable cytotoxic effects.
- Potential risks associated with D-ribose supplementation are likely underestimated in current research.
Conclusions:
- Caution is advised regarding the widespread use of D-ribose as an energy supplement for healthy individuals.
- Further research is needed to fully understand and quantify the risks of D-ribose, including its impact on cellular metabolism and potential cytotoxicity.
- The metabolic consequences and glycation properties of D-ribose warrant careful consideration before its recommendation as a dietary supplement.
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