Biotin: Essential Vitamin for Lipid Metabolism and Cellular Functions
February 1994
in “
Neuroscience letters
”
New to Biotin? There is a guide in the encyclopedia. Read the guide → Studysummary This review provides an overview of biotin's role in metabolism and the consequences of deficiency but reports no new clinical findings; it highlights that intestinal bacteria usually meet biotin needs.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
Biotin, a water-soluble vitamin crucial for lipid metabolism, amino acid breakdown, and other cellular functions, has recommended daily intakes of 0.7 μg/kg for infants, 8–20 μg/day for children depending on age, 30 μg/day for adults, and 35 μg/day during lactation. Intestinal bacteria typically provide sufficient biotin, with foods like soybeans, liver, cauliflower, mushrooms, bean sprouts, and eggs being significant sources. Deficiency in biotin can lead to a range of health issues, including impaired glucose tolerance, mental dysfunction, muscle pain, sensory disturbances, appetite loss, dermatitis, hair loss, and weakened immune response. Biotin absorption in the intestine is facilitated by a sodium/multivitamin cotransporter and regulated by protein kinase C and calcium/calmodulin signaling, ensuring adaptation to varying intake levels.
