Prakt. lékáren. 2011; 7(4): 166-170

Pathology of folic acid nad pregnancy

Michal Koucký

Gynekologicko-porodnická klinika 1. LF UK a VFN, Praha

Folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin and a member of the vitamin B group. The biological effects are associated with its metabolites,

particularly 5-methyl-THF (metafolin). The demand for folic acid increases two- to three-fold during pregnancy. An inadequate intake

of folic acid is either absolute, i. e. a reduced intake in food, or relative, i. e. disorders of its metabolism. MTHFR mutations are among the

most significant metabolic disorders. A relative or absolute deficiency of folic acid may be linked with various gestational pathologies.

No exact associations have been known so far; however, recent information has shown that metafolin is a key NO synthase regulator. In

the case of its deficiency, impaired vascular perfusion at the level of microcirculation can be theoretically assumed.

delivery.

Keywords: folic acid, metafolin, MTHFR mutations, NO synthase, intrauterine growth restriction, intrauterine fetal death, premature

Published: August 10, 2011  Show citation