Folates – the biological foundation of DNA synthesis and cellular health

Folates as the active form of vitamin B9

Folates are the natural, biologically active forms of vitamin B9, occurring in plant foods and playing a key role in the functioning of the body. Unlike synthetic folic acid, folates are used directly by cells without the need for multi-stage enzymatic conversion. Their presence is indispensable for the proper division of cells, for DNA synthesis and for methylation processes, which determine the stability of the genetic material and the regulation of gene expression.

Why folates are indispensable at the molecular level

Folates take part in the transfer of one-carbon units, which makes possible the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines – the basic elements of DNA and RNA. Without an adequate amount of folates, cells are not able to divide properly, which particularly affects tissues with high regenerative activity, such as the bone marrow, the intestinal epithelium or the skin. A deficiency of folates leads to disturbances of cell proliferation, to chromosomal instability and to a slowing down of repair processes.

Folates and the nervous system and cognitive functions

A proper level of folates is of considerable importance for the functioning of the nervous system. These compounds take part in the synthesis of neurotransmitters and regulate the level of homocysteine, an excess of which acts neurotoxically. An adequate supply of folates supports concentration, memory and emotional stability. Long-term deficiencies may favour a deterioration of cognitive functions and mood disorders, which shows how strongly one-carbon metabolism is linked with the work of the brain.

The importance of folates in blood formation

One of the best known areas of folate action is their participation in the process of erythropoiesis. Folates are indispensable for the proper maturation of erythrocytes in the bone marrow. Their deficiency leads to the formation of abnormal, enlarged red blood cells, which results in megaloblastic anaemia. This condition manifests itself through fatigue, weakness, pallor of the skin and a decline in physical capacity. In this process folates act together with vitamin B12, which is why the balance between these ingredients is of key importance.

Folates and pregnancy and prenatal development

During pregnancy the demand for folates increases significantly, because intensive cell divisions determine the proper development of the foetus. Folates play a key role in the closing of the neural tube and in the development of the child's nervous system. Their appropriate level reduces the risk of developmental defects and supports the proper course of pregnancy. More and more attention is also being paid to the importance of the active forms of folates in women with methylation disorders, for whom classic folic acid may be insufficiently effective.

Natural sources of folates in the diet

Folates occur mainly in green leafy vegetables, legumes, avocado, broccoli, citrus fruits and sprouts. They are, however, sensitive to heat treatment, light and oxidation, which is why their actual content in the diet is sometimes lower than nutritional tables indicate. Lifestyle, stress, alcohol and certain medicines additionally increase the demand for folates, which means that the diet does not always cover the needs of the body.

Folates and methylation processes

Methylation is one of the key processes regulating the functioning of the body at the genetic and metabolic level. Folates are a central element of the methylation cycle, influencing detoxification, the synthesis of neurotransmitters and the regulation of hormones. Disturbances of methylation may lead to an elevated level of homocysteine, to weakened immunity and to metabolic problems. An adequate supply of folates supports the balance of these processes and the stability of cellular functions.

Bioavailability of folates and the importance of the form

Not all forms of vitamin B9 are equally well absorbed. Natural folates and their active forms are characterised by better bioavailability than synthetic folic acid, which requires enzymatic conversion. In part of the population this process is genetically limited, which makes supplementation with active folates more effective and safer. Modern carrier technologies additionally increase the stability and absorbability of these compounds.

Folates in DWATRO Laboratories supplements

The DWATRO Laboratories brand uses active, biologically available forms of folates in its supplementation formulas, combining them with the technology DWATRO®LIP. Thanks to liposomal carriers, folates are more effectively protected against degradation and better transported to cells. DWATRO Laboratories products often combine folates with vitamin B12, choline and ingredients supporting methylation, which allows comprehensive support for the nervous, blood-forming and metabolic systems.

Folates and regeneration and the rate of cellular renewal

Folates have a direct influence on the rate of tissue regeneration, because they determine proper cell divisions. Their appropriate level supports healing, the renewal of the intestinal epithelium and the regeneration of the skin. In situations of increased demand, such as stress, intense exertion or convalescence, folates play an important role in maintaining the efficient biological renewal of the body.

Summary

Folates are one of the key regulators of cellular health, determining DNA synthesis, methylation processes, blood formation and the proper functioning of the nervous system. Their role goes far beyond the classic association with pregnancy, covering regeneration, genetic stability and metabolic balance. The effectiveness of folates depends on their form and bioavailability, which is why modern solutions, such as the DWATRO®LIP technology used by DWATRO Laboratories, make it possible to use their biological potential in full. Folates constitute the foundation of cellular health and of long-term prevention for the body.

My name is Dorota Wątróbska-Świetlikowska, I am a pharmacist and a scientist holding the degree of habilitated doctor of pharmaceutical sciences. I decided to combine my scientific knowledge and experience in order to create dietary supplements of the highest quality.

My passion and main area of research are submicron dispersion systems, such as submicron emulsions, liposomes and lipospheres. After obtaining my doctoral degree, I turned my attention to the practical aspects of parenteral nutrition, combining the needs of the patient with the possibilities available to the pharmacist. What matters most to me is quality, safety and effectiveness, which is visible both in my scientific work and in my approach to creating supplements by Dwatro Laboratories®.