Mecobalamin
[CAS# 13422-55-4]

Identification

• Classification: API >> Vitamins and minerals >> Vitamin B drugs
• Name: Mecobalamin
• Synonyms: Methyl-5,6-dimethylbenzimidazolylcobalamin; Vitamin B12
• Molecular Formula: C₆₃H₉₁CoN₁₃O₁₄P
• Molecular Weight: 1344.38
• CAS Registry Number: 13422-55-4
• EC Number: 236-535-3
• SMILES: Cc1cc2c(cc1C)n(cn2)[C@@H]3[C@@H]([C@@H]([C@H](O3)CO)OP(=O)([O-])OC(C)CNC(=O)CC[C@@]4([C@H]([C@@H]5[C@]6([C@@]([C@@H](/C(=C(/C7=N/C(=CC8=N/C(=C(C4=N5)/C)/[C@H](C8(C)C)CCC(=O)N)/[C@H]([C@]7(C)CC(=O)N)CCC(=O)N)C)/N6[Co+]C)CCC(=O)N)(C)CC(=O)N)C)CC(=O)N)C)O

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Risk Statements: H302
• Safety Statements: P280-P305+P351+P338

Discovery and Applications

Methylcobalamin, also known as methylcobalamin, is a biologically active form of vitamin B12. Methylcobalamin, with the molecular formula C63H91CoN13O14P, plays a key role in numerous metabolic processes in the human body, particularly in nervous system function and erythropoiesis. Its discovery and subsequent applications have had a significant impact on medical treatment and nutritional science.

The discovery of methylcobalamin is associated with the extensive identification and study of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 was first isolated in 1948 by scientists Karl Folkers and Alexander Todd. Among the various forms of vitamin B12, methylcobalamin was identified as one of the naturally occurring and biologically active variants. Its importance became apparent as researchers began to understand its unique role in human metabolism, particularly in the methylation process necessary for DNA synthesis and neural function.

Methylcobalamin is naturally synthesized by microorganisms, including certain bacteria and archaea. Industrial production typically involves culturing these microorganisms, followed by extraction and purification processes to isolate methylcobalamin. Synthetic methods have also been developed to produce methylcobalamin from cyanocobalamin through a methylation process.

Methylcobalamin is widely used to treat vitamin B12 deficiency. This disease can lead to pernicious anemia, neurological disorders, and other health problems. The active form of methylcobalamin makes it easily available to the body, making it particularly effective in addressing deficiencies. It is administered orally or by injection, depending on the severity of the deficiency.

One of the most important applications of methylcobalamin is in the treatment of neurological disorders. It is used to treat conditions such as peripheral neuropathy, where nerve damage causes pain, numbness, and weakness, often associated with diabetes. Methylcobalamin supports nerve regeneration and repair by promoting myelination and enhancing nerve cell growth.

Research suggests that methylcobalamin may have potential benefits in treating amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a progressive neurodegenerative disease. High doses of methylcobalamin have been studied for its neuroprotective effects, which may slow the progression of ALS and improve the quality of life of patients.

Methylcobalamin is a popular ingredient in nutritional supplements, especially for individuals at risk for vitamin B12 deficiency, such as vegetarians, vegans, and the elderly. It is preferred over other forms of vitamin B12 due to its high bioavailability and effectiveness in supporting overall health, including cognitive function and energy metabolism.

There is growing interest in the role of methylcobalamin in cognitive health. Research suggests that it may help prevent cognitive decline and support brain function, making it a valuable supplement for maintaining mental acuity and treating conditions such as mild cognitive impairment and dementia.

References

1964. Isolation of Methylcobalamin from Natural Source Material. Nature, 204.
DOI: 10.1038/204188a0

2023. Stability indicating RP-HPLC method for methylcobalamin determination in different dosage forms: Application to photodegradation kinetics and pH rate profiling. Journal of Separation Science, 46(12).
DOI: 10.1002/jssc.202200132

2024. Ultra-high dose methylcobalamin and other emerging therapies for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Current Opinion in Neurology, 37(5).
DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000001311