Biotransformation of pteroylmonoglutamic acid during absorption: implications of Michaelis-Menten kinetics.
Previously reported work from this laboratory has shown that, in man, the formation of plasma 5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid (5MeTHF) from orally administered pteroylmonoglutamic acid (PGA) obeys Michaelis-Menten kinetics. The regression equation obtained from a plot of the reciprocal amount of 5MeTHF formed (micrograms per litre plasma/min) as a function of reciprocal amount of PGA administered (micrograms/kg body weight) provides a useful means of calculating the improved efficiency of 5MeTHF formation by dividing the total dose of PGA into smaller doses.
Lucock
M
M
University Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, General Infirmary, Leeds, UK.
Wild
J
J
Smithells
R
R
Hartley
R
R
D000328:Adult; D001711:Biotransformation; D005260:Female; D005492:Folic Acid / Q000493:pharmacokinetics*; D006801:Humans; D007408:Intestinal Absorption; D008297:Male; D013763:Tetrahydrofolates / Q000493:pharmacokinetics
D013763:Tetrahydrofolates; D005492:Folic Acid; C005984:5-methyltetrahydrofolate