Your DNA -- the organic material that contains your genetic information -- is found in almost every cell in your body. DNA is made up of smaller molecules called nucleic acids, which bond together to form long strands. The sequence of distinct nucleic acids makes up your genetic code and acts as a blueprint for thousands of genes that help control your cells' behavior. A number of essential vitamins play a role in proper DNA functioning and, therefore, help support the functioning of your cells.
Vitamin A
One vitamin that has an effect on your DNA is vitamin A, which can be found in the forms retinol and retinal. Retinal affects your DNA by controlling gene expression -- or what genes are being made into proteins at any given cell at a specific time. The expression of different genes determines which proteins are present within the cell at a given time and the proteins present help determine the cell's behavior. The Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University explains that upon exposure to retinal, cells begin to transcribe specific genes, an initiating step in making specific proteins. This control over gene expression allows vitamin A to guide a cell's maturation, helping to grow and maintain functional tissue.
Vitamin B9
Another vitamin important for proper DNA functioning is vitamin B9, or folate. This vitamin belongs to the family of B-class vitamins, which generally aid in the breakdown of nutrients you consume in your diet. Folate also helps with the synthesis of DNA, explains Science Daily. Vitamin B9 promotes the activity of an enzyme called MTHFR, which is instrumental in generating the nucleic acids. Without vitamin B9 and functional MTHFR, your cells may not efficiently generate new nucleic acids. This in turn leads to a diminished capacity to create new DNA, an essential stage in cell division required for tissue maintenance. Science Daily explains that folate may also help correct defects in specific genes, potentially protecting you from disease.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E, a family of eight related chemicals, also helps preserve healthy DNA. Vitamin E compounds belong to a class of chemicals called antioxidants. They function to react with and neutralize dangerous reactive chemicals in your cells and tissues. These reactive compounds, called free radicals, can damage your cells' membranes, proteins and DNA. Over time, this cumulative damage can lead to diseases including Alzheimer's disease and cancer, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. Vitamin E protects your cells and your DNA by neutralizing free radicals, preventing further damage to your genetic information and fighting disease.
Member Comments