Thiamine pyrophosphate is a vital coenzyme that aids in tissue respiration, cellular metabolism, and glucose oxidation. It is obtained through diet and is crucial for healthy cellular function. Deficiency can lead to serious health problems, including death.
Thiamine pyrophosphate is a derivative of vitamin B1 that functions as the active form of the nutrient thiamine. It functions as a coenzyme in proper tissue respiration, cellular metabolism, and glucose oxidation. Coenzymes, sometimes called cofactors, are chemical compounds from non-protein sources that are bound to a protein for the healthy functioning of that protein’s biological actions. Also known as thiamine diphosphate (ThDP), thiamine pyrophosphate is often prescribed for the treatment of thiamine deficiency.
Beriberi, a disease of the peripheral nervous system, was the catalyst through which scientists discovered the role and importance of thiamine pyrophosphate in the human body. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, beriberi was a common disease in many Southeast Asian countries. As science progressed, researchers were able to identify a severe lack of thiamine in the diets of those affected. Through these findings, it was established that thiamine pyrophosphate was a universal essential nutrient in all living organisms.
Thiamine pyrophosphate works by breaking down amino acids and sugars and producing energy for the body. Like the B vitamins, thiamine pyrophosphate, or TPP, plays a vital role in healthy tissue respiration, proper cell metabolism, and efficient glucose oxidation. It is also crucial for the proper metabolism of carbohydrates.
TPP is one of several natural derivatives of thiamine. The others are thiamine monophosphate (ThMP), thiamine triphosphate (ThTP), thiamine triphosphate (AThTP), and adenosine thiamine diphosphate (AThDP). All four derivatives operate like the active form of thiamine, which means they actually do the physical work required of the nutrient. Thiamine itself simply functions as a transport structure for the vitamin. Researchers have been aware of TPP, ThMP, and ThTP for some time, but the identification of AThTP and AThDP was discovered in the late 20th century.
Humans and animals obtain TPP primarily through the diet. Many foods contain some form of thiamine, usually in small amounts. The highest concentrations of thiamine and TPP can be obtained from pork or yeast sources. The beans are also an excellent source of TPP. As a general rule, raw and unrefined grains will have higher levels of thiamine and TPP. Other sources of this important nutrient include asparagus, cauliflower, eggs, kale, legumes, nuts, oranges, and potatoes.
Since TPP works in direct support of healthy cellular function, a deficiency in the nutrient can have detrimental effects throughout the body. It can cause serious eye strain and major neurological problems. In severe cases, the lack of TPP can lead to death. In addition to a poor diet, a TPP deficiency can be caused by persistent vomiting, HIV/AIDS, gastrointestinal disorders, and Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. It can also be a direct result of chronic alcoholism.
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