Vitamin B5
Pantothenic acid - precursor to Coenzyme A (CoA) essential for energy metabolism, steroid synthesis, and acetylcholine production.
Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) is a water-soluble B vitamin that is the precursor to coenzyme A (CoA), one of the most important cofactors in metabolism. The name comes from Greek 'pantos' meaning 'everywhere' - reflecting its widespread occurrence in foods.
Coenzyme A formation: Pantothenic acid → 4'-Phosphopantetheine → CoA. This conversion requires cysteine and ATP. CoA contains a reactive thiol (-SH) group that forms thioester bonds with acids. CoA functions: Acetyl-CoA formation (central metabolic hub), Fatty acid synthesis and oxidation, Steroid and cholesterol synthesis, Heme synthesis, Acetylcholine synthesis, Amino acid metabolism, and Protein acetylation (including histones).
Acyl carrier protein: Pantothenic acid is also part of acyl carrier protein (ACP), essential for fatty acid synthesis.
Deficiency: Rare due to widespread occurrence in foods. Symptoms include fatigue, insomnia, depression, irritability, paresthesias ('burning feet syndrome'), and impaired coordination. Experimentally induced deficiency causes fatigue and malaise. Food sources: Widely distributed - liver, kidney, egg yolks, broccoli, mushrooms, avocados, sweet potatoes, and whole grains.
Most people get adequate B5. Therapeutic uses: Pantethine (active form, 600-1200mg) can lower LDL and triglycerides and raise HDL. High-dose pantothenic acid (sometimes with carnitine) has been used for adrenal support, though evidence is limited. B5 is included in B-complex formulas for energy support.
No toxicity: Even very high doses appear safe. Water-soluble, excreted in urine.
Metabolic Connections
Vitamin B5 connects to 4 other pathways.
Neurotransmitters
Acetylcholine
B5 is required for CoA synthesis, which is essential for acetylcholine production
Neurotransmitter essential for memory, learning, attention, and muscle contraction. Synthesized from choline and acetyl-CoA.
Acetylcholine
Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) is required for CoA synthesis, which is essential for acetylcholine production
Neurotransmitter essential for memory, learning, attention, and muscle contraction. Synthesized from choline and acetyl-CoA.
