ΒΙΟΤΙΝ
ΒΙΟΤΙΝ
Brand Names : Vitamin H; Coenzyme
R; Bios II; Bioepiderm; Anti-Egg white injury Factor; S/Skin Factor.
Biotin is the growth factor present in
minute amounts in every living cells. It plays an indispensable role in
numerous naturally occurring carboxylation reactions. It occurs mainly bound to
proteins or polypeptides. The richest sources are liver, kidney, pancreas,
yeast and milk. The biotin content of cancerous tumors is higher than that of
normal tissue. Biotin combines with the proteinaceous substance, avidin, in
egg-white and becomes inactive.
Biotin, m.p. 232-233°, is a white,
crystalline powder which is very slightly soluble in water and in alcohol;
insoluble in other common organic solvents; more soluble in hot water and in
dilute alkali. The pure compound is stable to air and temperature; moderately
acid and neutral solutions are stable for several months; alkaline solutions
are less stable. Aqueous solutions are very susceptible to mold growth.
Biotin functions as a carboxylation
cofactor. Its deficiency in mammals develops only when raw egg white is added
to the biotin-deficient diet. Certain cases of baldness in men are caused by
seborrheic conditions and can be improved by biotin.
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