Vitamin B12 CAS#68-19-9

Vitamin B12, commonly abbreviated as VB12, is also called cobalamin. As a member of the B vitamin family, it represents a group of cobalt-containing corrinoid complex organic compounds. The trivalent cobalt ion within its structure is positioned at the center of a corrin ring plane resembling porphyrin. It holds the distinction of being the largest and most intricate vitamin molecule identified to date, and uniquely contains metal ions among vitamins; its crystalline form appears red, earning it the alternative name of red vitamin. Unlike animals, plants neither contain nor synthesize VB12. The richest natural source is liver, with other good sources including milk, meat, eggs, and fish. VB12 serves as an essential coenzyme in both ribonucleic acid and deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis. 

Deficiency may lead to neurological disorders affecting both peripheral nerves and the central nervous system. The fundamental structure of these natural cobalt coordination compounds is termed corrinoids. Different forms of vitamin B12 vary only in their cobalt's β-ligand configuration, collectively known as cobalamins. Nearly all VB12 production occurs through bacterial synthesis. Primary dietary sources comprise fish, meat, liver and dairy products, while plant-based foods contain minimal or no cobalamin. Both methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin function as enzyme cofactors that the body converts into biologically active forms. Significant deficiency can cause megaloblastic anemia and potential neurological impairment.