Emergence of Novel Functions of Vitamins for the Prevention of Life-Style Related Diseases

Abstract

Vitamins are a family of micronutrients comprising 13 groups of organic compounds, of which vitamin B1 was identified first, approximately 110 y ago. Deficiency of each vitamin results in specific symptoms, such as neuropathy, dermatitis, diarrhea, dementia, pernicious anemia, scurvy, blindness, rickets, and bleeding. Almost all vitamins can modulate the functions of enzymes and/or other proteins involved in the formation of bone and soft tissues, generation of energy, and regulation of homeostasis via specific vitamin-protein interactions. In addition to the well-known physiological roles of vitamins, novel modes of action of vitamins have been elucidated. These new functions could contribute to extending healthy life expectancy by preventing and curing lifestyle-related diseases. In this mini-review, we introduce the functional properties of three vitamins, vitamin B3 (niacin), biotin, and vitamin K, for the prevention of age-related diseases.

Cell Protection by Oxidative Stress Mitigation Using Substances with Bioactive Properties

“…Deficiencies in plasma concentrations of vitamins and minerals can lead to altered immune system function, contributing to unfavorable immunological conditions. The most prominent micronutrients are vitamins A, B, C, D, and E, riboflavin, β-carotene, selenium, zinc, and iron [78,79]. Although beneficial effects of vitamins and minerals due to their rich bioactive properties are undoubtable, their over-supplementation may be associated with no protective effect or even harm [80][81][82][83][84][85][86].…”

“…However, numerous studies show health-promoting activities of vitamins and minerals exerting anti-cancer, anti-aging, immune-promoting effects, stroke prevention, preventing various medical conditions such as sepsis, ischemia, lifestyle-related diseases, etc. [78,79,[87][88][89][90][91].…”