MCQ Detailed View

Biotin, also known as Vitamin B-7, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a critical role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It functions as a coenzyme for several enzymes called carboxylases, which are involved in essential biochemical processes such as gluconeogenesis, fatty acid synthesis, and amino acid breakdown. This makes Biotin crucial for energy production and metabolic balance in the human body.

Biotin is important for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails, as well as supporting proper cell growth and nervous system function. Deficiency of Biotin is rare but can lead to hair thinning, skin rashes, fatigue, and neurological symptoms. Because it is widely available in foods like eggs, nuts, seeds, fish, and certain vegetables, most people get sufficient Biotin through a balanced diet.

It is important to distinguish Biotin (Vitamin B-7) from other B-complex vitamins:

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  Vitamin B-3 (Niacin): Supports energy metabolism and DNA repair.

  
  


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  Vitamin B-4: Historically used for choline, but no longer officially recognized as a B-vitamin.

  
  


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  Vitamin B-5 (Pantothenic Acid): Involved in coenzyme A synthesis and energy metabolism.

  
  

Understanding Biotin is fundamental in biology and nutrition, as it demonstrates how vitamins act as coenzymes in critical metabolic pathways. Knowledge of Vitamin B-7 helps students understand the connection between diet and energy production, and how vitamins contribute to overall physiological health.

Biotin also has practical applications in medicine and cosmetics, often used in supplements to improve hair and nail strength and support metabolic functions. Studying Biotin highlights the role of vitamins in maintaining human health and metabolic efficiency.