Vitamin B10 is called para-aminobenzoic acid, often abbreviated as pABA or PABA.
Understanding Vitamin B10 (pABA)
Para-aminobenzoic acid (pABA) is a chemical compound that is a component of the folate molecule. It's naturally produced by plants and bacteria and can be found in various foods. While not strictly a vitamin in the way we often think of others, like vitamin C or D, pABA does play a role in biological processes.
Key Characteristics of pABA:
- Folate Component: pABA is essential for the synthesis of folate, a vital B vitamin that's crucial for DNA production and repair.
- Natural Source: Found in plants and synthesized by bacteria, it is naturally present in many foods.
- UV Protection: pABA is widely known as an active ingredient in sunscreens, thanks to its ability to absorb harmful UV radiation.
- Medical Uses: While not universally recommended, some people use pABA orally for certain medical conditions.
pABA in Everyday Life
The most common encounter people have with pABA is often through sunscreen. Its ability to block UV radiation makes it a useful ingredient to protect the skin from sun damage. Additionally, its role in folate synthesis and potential medical benefits have led to interest in its use as a supplement, although these uses are still being explored.
Summary
Here is a quick summary of the information about Vitamin B10:
Vitamin Name | Scientific Name | Other Names | Function |
---|---|---|---|
Vitamin B10 | para-aminobenzoic acid | pABA, PABA | Component of folate, UV protection, potential medical uses. |
In essence, the substance we refer to as vitamin B10 is actually known as para-aminobenzoic acid or pABA. It's important to recognize its role in folate production, UV protection, and its potential medical applications.