Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) HPLC

Article number: KC2900

Test-Category

HPLC

Detection

UV detection

Elution

isocratic

Pack size

100 Tests

Possible sample matrix and volumes

Li-heparin plasma 200 µl

In the 15th to 17th century more sailors died of scorbut than of any other disease. The food provided on board contained nearly no Vitamin C. In the 16th century the importance of Vitamin C, supplied by citrus fruits in healing scorbut was discoverd. Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) is a strong reducing substance. The oxidation of Vitamin C leads over a radicalic intermediate to dehydroascorbic acid, in vivo. The three forms mentioned constitute a reversible redox-system. Ascorbic acid plays an important role in hydroxylation reactions, i.e. in the synthesis of collagen. So it is rather important for the de novo synthesis of bone, cartilage and tooth and for the healing of wounds. Vitamin C is needed for the production of noradrenalin. Another important role of Vitamin C is that of an antioxidants, that means it protects other substances from the oxidating effects of oxygen. Ascorbic acid promotes the resorption of iron in the intestine. It reduces the production of nitrosamines which might cause cancer. The primary unspecific signals of a lack of Vitamin C are: tiredness, physical and mental weakness and increased susceptibility for infections. Psychic disturbances like depressions or hysteria are possible.

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