Vitamin B12 Regulation of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Synthesis

Abstract

Low-grade, chronic inflammation is associated with a range of diet and age-related disorders, including diabetes, arthritis, and cognitive deficits. Inflammatory cells have the capacity to synthesize complex Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFAs) called specialized pro-resolution mediators (SPMs) that regulate the extent and duration of inflammatory responses. Humans have a limited capacity to synthesize SMPs, especially as we age, due to decreased expression of the elongase and desaturase enzymes required in their conversion from dietary PUFAs. It was recently shown that vitamin B12, an essential micronutrient, enhances the cognitive benefits of dietary n-3 PUFAs. It is hypothesized that B12 will increase macrophage SPM synthesis and subdue pro-inflammatory cytokine production. Results indicate that vitamin B12 did not significantly regulate or influence gene expression associated with the pro-inflammatory response, but it did seem to enhance the expression of neuroprotective genes.