General description

L-ascorbic acid also called vitamin C, is a water soluble vitamin and acts as a reducing agent for various biochemical reactions. Ascorbic acid plays a key role in the production of collagen. Ascorbic acid is essential for neurodevelopment, neurotransmitter synthesis and modulates neuronal synapsis. Dietary inadequacy of vitamin C has negative impact on cognition.

Application

L-ascorbic acid has been used as an ingredient in the basal medium for bovine mammary epithelial cells and oocyte-granulosa cell complexes. It has been used as a supplement in the osteogenic medium for osteogenic differentiation.

Biochem/physiol Actions

Ascorbic Acid, also known as Vitamin C, is a six-carbon lactone produced by plants and some animal species but not by humans and other primates. Ascorbic acid functions as an enzymatic cofactor for multiple enzymes, serving as an electron donor for monooxygenases and dioxygenases. Ascorbic acid also functions as a powerful antioxidant, particularly in regards to reactive oxygen species.