What is the Importance of vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 deficiency is manifest by the symptoms of pernicious anaemia (Addison-Biermer's disease). An irreversible atrophy of the gastric mucose is primarily responsible for pernicious anaemia, causing loss of the intrinsic factor, which is predominantly produced in stomach. Vitamin B12 from the ingested food is bound by intrinsic factor that reaches intestine for absorption. In addition, vitamin B12 acts as a mediator in the formation of labile methyl groups for the synthesis of methionine. This explains its lipotropic and protein saving effect. In various animal species, increased growth may be produced by administration of vitamin B12. Also, in children, the growth promoting activity of vitamin B12 has been observed.