Folic acid: why it is essential for hematopoiesis?
Folic acid, also known as folate or vitamin B9, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in several bodily functions. It is an essential nutrient required for the synthesis and repair of DNA, as well as for cell division and growth.
Folic acid is particularly important during periods of rapid cell division and growth, such as pregnancy and infancy. Adequate intake of folic acid is vital for the proper development of the fetal neural tube, which later becomes the baby’s brain and spinal cord. Pregnant women are often advised to take folic acid supplements to reduce the risk of certain birth defects, such as neural tube defects.
In addition to its role in prenatal health, folic acid is also involved in the production of red blood cells and in the metabolism of amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. It helps in the formation and maturation of red blood cells and assists in carrying oxygen throughout the body.
Foods that are rich in folic acid include leafy green vegetables (such as spinach and kale), legumes (such as lentils and chickpeas), citrus fruits, fortified cereals, and liver. However, it can be challenging to get enough folic acid through diet alone, especially for pregnant women, which is why supplements are often recommended.
Folic acid, or vitamin B9, plays a crucial role in hematopoiesis, which is the process of blood cell formation. Here’s how folic acid is involved in hematopoiesis.
- Red Blood Cell Formation: Folic acid is essential for the production and maturation of red blood cells, also known as erythrocytes. It is required for the synthesis of DNA and the proper division and development of red blood cell precursors in the bone marrow. Folic acid supports the production of healthy red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen to tissues and removing carbon dioxide.
- DNA Synthesis in Blood Cells: Folic acid is necessary for the synthesis and repair of DNA, which is critical for the development and maturation of all blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. DNA is the genetic material that provides instructions for cell growth, division, and specialization. Folic acid ensures that DNA is synthesized properly during the formation of blood cells.
- Prevention of Anemia: Anemia is a condition characterized by a decrease in the number of red blood cells or a decrease in their ability to carry oxygen effectively. Folic acid deficiency can lead to megaloblastic anemia, where red blood cells are larger than normal and immature due to impaired DNA synthesis. Adequate folic acid levels are necessary to prevent anemia and support the production of healthy red blood cells.
- Cell Division and Growth: Hematopoiesis involves the continuous division and differentiation of blood cell precursors to produce mature blood cells. Folic acid is required for cell division and growth, providing the necessary building blocks for DNA synthesis. Without sufficient folic acid, the process of hematopoiesis may be disrupted, leading to impaired blood cell production.
It’s important to note that folic acid works in synergy with other nutrients, such as vitamin B12 and vitamin B6, in the process of hematopoiesis. These vitamins are involved in the metabolism and utilization of folic acid, ensuring its proper function in blood cell formation. Adequate intake of folic acid and other B vitamins is essential for maintaining a healthy hematopoietic system.
It’s worth noting that folic acid is the synthetic form of the vitamin, commonly found in supplements and fortified foods. Folate, on the other hand, refers to the naturally occurring form of vitamin B9 found in foods. Both folic acid and folate are metabolized in the body to produce the active form, called 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF), which is responsible for the vitamin’s functions.
While folic acid is generally safe for most people when taken within recommended dosage levels, excessive intake through supplementation can mask vitamin B12 deficiency and may have adverse effects. It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new dietary supplements, especially if you have specific health conditions or concerns.
1. Mikkelsen, Kathleen, and Vasso Apostolopoulos. “Vitamin B12, folic acid, and the immune system.” Nutrition and immunity (2019): 103-114.