In the synthesis of Co-Enzyme A, Pantetheine is an important intermediate in the transformation of Pantothenic acid to Co-Enzyme A. Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) is a key constituent of Co-Enzyme A. Our body uses Pantothenic acid to make proteins as well as other important chemicals needed to metabolize fats and carbohydrates. It is also used in the manufacture of hormones, red blood cells, and acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter. Pantethine is found naturally in small quantities in most forms of life, and therefore, in food sources. Very large doses of Pantethine have been found to have lipid-lowering effects, and Pantethine is used in Europe and Japan as a lipid-lowering agent. It is marketed in the United States as a nutritional supplement. It may have lipid-modulating activity. It has medicinal properties like putative antiatherogenic, ophthalmoprotective and detoxification activities.
As a supplement, Pantothenic acid has been proposed as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis , enhancing sports performance , and and fighting stress in general. It is also essential in producing, transporting, and releasing energy from fats and has been reported to lower blood levels of cholesterol and triglycerides. In the body, Pantothenic acid is converted to a related chemical known as Pantethine.
References:
PDR Health. http://www.pdrhealth.com/drug_info/nmdrugprofiles/nutsupdrugs/pan_0195.shtml
Pantethine Info. http://www.pantethine.org/whatis/
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