10.7A: Vitamin B₆ Functions

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PLP is a cofactor for over 100 different enzymes, most are involved in amino acid metabolism. In fact, without PLP, all amino acids would be essential because we would not be able to synthesize nonessential amino acids. Below are some of the functions of PLP and PMP¹:

Figure 10.711.png

Figure 10.711 Transaminases require PLP or PMP²

Figure 10.712.png

Figure 10.712 Some deaminases require PLP³

Figure 10.713.png

Figure 10.713 Glycogen phosphorylase requires PLP

PLP is required for decarboxylase enzymes that are involved in the synthesis of the neurotransmitters GABA, serotonin, histamine, and dopamine. As an example, DOPA decarboxylase uses PLP to convert L-DOPA to dopamine as shown below¹.

Figure 10.714.png

Figure 10.714 DOPA decarboxylase uses PLP to synthesize dopamine⁴

PLP is also required by gamma-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) synthetase that is involved in heme synthesis, as shown below. Heme will be discussed in more detail in the iron section.

Figure 10.715 .png

Figure 10.715 ALA synthetase uses PLP in the heme synthesis pathway⁵

PLP is also used in one of the multiple reactions that occur between kynurenine and niacin in its synthesis from tryptophan.

Figure 10.716.png

Figure 10.716 PLP is required for niacin synthesis from tryptophan⁶

In addition, PLP is also involved in:

Carnitine Synthesis

1-Carbon Metabolism

References & Links

Gropper SS, Smith JL, Groff JL. (2008) Advanced nutrition and human metabolism. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth Publishing.
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