Niacin is named as Nicotinamide and Nicotinic Acid . Both of them are involved in the reactions of energy metabolism as oxidant and reductants(hydrogen ion acceptor molecules) ,to create ATP molecule(the energy compound of the body). This process is called the respiration, occuring in mitochondria of the cell which is considered as the energy factory of the cell. The process is called the redox process where oxygen is used to burn carbohydrates(glucose) and create ATP, via the Krebs Cycle, the end product being the CO2 and water. As this is the energy needed for all metabolic and physiologic processes, Vit B3 is essential in oxidation and reduction steps of the whole pathway.
Interpretation: Niacin deficiency depletes all energy process in the body . It keeps the nervous system, digestive system and the skin health. Niacin deficiency is called Pellegra. Pellegra is seen in people with digestive system problems, elective nutrition due to kidney diseases, in carcinoid tumors and birth defects called Hartnup Disease. Symptoms are red rashes in the lighter colour parts of the skin, vomitting, dementia, diarrhea and abdominal pain. The deficiency is mostly due to tryptophan amino acid depletion. The treatment is done with Niacin supplement, but if the dose is high, Niacin excess causes severe skin flushing with dizziness, rapid heartbeat, itching, abdominal pain, nausea and vomitting, diarrhea and gout.
Sample: Arm vein plasma(EDTA),Nonfasting
Working day: Monday
Result Time: Consult the laboratory
