Adenosylcobalamin (Vitamin B12) CAS 13870-90-1

Adenosylcobalamin (Vitamin B12) – Bioactive Coenzyme Form for Energy Metabolism and Neurological Health

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 13870-90-1

• Molecular Formula: C₇₂H₁₀₀CoN₁₈O₁₇P

• Molecular Weight: 1579.58 g/mol

• Synonyms: Coenzyme B12, Cobamamide, Adenosylcobalamin

• Appearance: Reddish to brown crystalline powder

• Solubility: Moderately soluble in water; sensitive to light and oxidation

• Stability: Requires protection from light and oxygen to maintain activity

Overview
Adenosylcobalamin (also known as coenzyme B12 or cobamamide) is one of the two bioactive coenzyme forms of vitamin B12 found in the human body. It plays a critical role in cellular metabolism, particularly in the conversion of methylmalonyl‑CoA to succinyl‑CoA, a key step in the breakdown of certain amino acids and fatty acids. This reaction is essential for energy production and the maintenance of a healthy nervous system. Deficiency of vitamin B12 can lead to megaloblastic anemia, neurological disorders, and impaired metabolic processes. As a biologically active form, adenosylcobalamin is directly utilized in mitochondria, making it more readily available for metabolic functions without requiring conversion in the liver.

Chemical Structure
Adenosylcobalamin features a complex corrin ring structure with a central cobalt atom coordinated to a 5'-deoxyadenosyl group. This unique structure enables it to participate in enzymatic reactions involving carbon‑carbon bond rearrangements and methyl group transfers. The production of adenosylcobalamin is primarily achieved through biotechnological methods using microorganisms capable of synthesizing cobalamin.

Physicochemical Properties

• Appearance: Reddish to brown crystalline powder

• Solubility: Moderately soluble in water; sensitive to light and oxidation

• Stability: Requires protection from light, oxygen, and moisture to maintain activity

• Storage: Store in tightly sealed containers, protected from light, at room temperature or refrigerated

Applications

• Dietary supplements: Used to correct vitamin B12 deficiency and treat megaloblastic anemia.

• Neurological support: Supports nervous system function and may improve cognitive performance.

• Energy metabolism: Plays a key role in mitochondrial energy production and fatty acid metabolism.

• Functional nutrition: Included in multivitamin formulations and health products for metabolic support.

• Pharmaceuticals: Used in injectable formulations and oral supplements for patients with absorption disorders.

• Animal feed: Added to livestock and pet feed to prevent deficiency and promote growth.

Key Benefits

• Directly active in mitochondria – immediate availability for metabolic processes.

• Supports the conversion of methylmalonyl‑CoA to succinyl‑CoA, preventing accumulation of toxic metabolites.

• Protects against megaloblastic anemia and neurological complications.

• Plays a role in DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and myelin sheath maintenance.

• Well‑tolerated and safe at recommended doses.

Recommended Intake

• General population: 2.4 µg/day (for adults)

• Pregnant women: 2.6–2.8 µg/day

• Lactating women: 2.8–3.0 µg/day

• Therapeutic doses for deficiency: as directed by healthcare professionals.

• Upper intake level: No established limit, but high doses (e.g., >1,000 µg/day) may be used under medical supervision for specific conditions.

Safety and Handling

• Adenoxylcobalamin is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) at recommended levels.

• May cause mild gastrointestinal upset in sensitive individuals.

• Protect from light, oxygen, and moisture to preserve potency.

• Store in a cool, dry, dark place, in tightly sealed containers.

• Use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, dust mask) when handling large quantities.

Packaging
Available in 1 kg, 5 kg, 10 kg, and 25 kg containers (bags, drums, or boxes). Custom packaging upon request.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for purity (by HPLC), moisture, heavy metals, and microbial contamination to ensure compliance with food, pharmaceutical, and supplement standards.