Vitamın C in Animals of Economic Value

Abstract

Vitamin C (VC) is water-soluble and synthesized from glucose. D-glucose → d-glucuronic acid → l-gulonic acid → l-gulono-γ-lactone → l-VC. This event occurs in the liver in mammals ruminants and in the kidney in reptiles. The endogenous synthetic capacity of VC decreases in exposure to stress. Ruminants are more sensitive to VC deficiency because VC administered orally is rapidly destroyed by the rumen microflora and alkaline pH. Synthesis begins with glucose in the liver and occurs in the mitochondria via uronic acid. VC is one of the most important antioxidants in extracellular fluids. It also has antioxidant activity inside the cell. Hypochlorite binds and neutralizes peroxide and hydroxy radicals, hydrogen peroxide, superoxide anion and singlet oxygen. Water-soluble vitamins (VCs) must be taken regularly to prevent hypovitaminosis due to their low storage. VC accelerates chemotaxis, promotes the growth and proliferation of lymphocytes, and helps kill bacteria by leukocytes. It also has bacteriostatic activity. The presence of VC significantly inhibits bacterial replication. Additionally, VC prevents lipopolysaccharide-mediated lung injury in sepsis. It also promotes apoptosis and supports immunity by protecting endothelial progenitor cells. It is found in significant amounts in tomatoes, citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, fruits and milk. It is significantly denatured during pasteurization of milk. Orange and lemon juice contains approximately 0.5 mg VC per ml. In this study, the effect of VC, especially on animals with economic value, was investigated.