Vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, consists of an isoalloxazine ring connected to ribitol. Riboflavin is resistant to heat, but light can be broken down by light.
This vitamin has two coenzyme forms: FMN (flavin mononucleotide) and FAD (flavin adenine dinucleotide). FAD and FMN are involved in oxidation-reduction reactions and act as electron carriers. Enzymes that contain FAD or FMN are referred to as flavoproteins. Flavoproteins, such as alpha-amino acid oxidase, xanthine oxidase, succinate dehydrogenase, and dihydrolipoyl dehydrogenase, are enzymes involved in various biological processes. Yeast, liver, and kidney are rich in this vitamin.
B2(Riboflavin) deficiency symptoms
A deficiency of riboflavin can cause significant but nonfatal disorders in animals. Symptoms of vitamin B2 deficiency include sores at the corners of the mouth, tongue and light sensitivity. The diagnosis of riboflavin deficiency involves measuring the activity of the glutathione reductase enzyme in red blood cells.
| Symptoms | Description |
|---|---|
| Sores at the corners of the mouth | Painful cracks at the corners of the mouth |
| Mouth sores | Painful sores inside the mouth |
| Tongue sores | Painful sores on the tongue |
| Light sensitivity | Sensitivity to light |
