The main difference between Myo inositol and D Chiro Inositol is that Myo-inositol is more abundant in nature and has broader applications in cellular processes than D-chiro inositol.
Inositol is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol that serves as a fundamental building block for various cellular functions. There are two types of inositol compounds that stand out in the world of biology: Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol.
Key Areas Covered
1. What is Myo Inositol
– Definition, Features
2. What is D Chiro Inositol
– Definition, Features
3. Similarities Between Myo Inositol and D Chiro Inositol
– Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Myo Inositol and D Chiro Inositol
– Comparison of Key Differences
Key Terms
C6H12O6, Inositol, Myo Inositol, D Chiro Inositol
What is Myo Inositol
Myo-inositol is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol that belongs to the vitamin B complex family. It plays a crucial role in various physiological processes within the human body. Myo-inositol has the chemical formula C6H12O6 and is classified as a hexahydroxycyclohexane. It is a cyclic six-carbon sugar alcohol with six hydroxyl groups attached to the carbon ring. The name “Myo-inositol” is derived from “myo,” indicating the stereochemistry of the hydroxyl group at the second carbon position, which is in the cis configuration.
Myo-inositol is not considered an essential nutrient, as it can be synthesized by the body from glucose. However, it is found in many foods, and supplementation with Myo-inositol has gained popularity for its potential health benefits and therapeutic applications.
Figure 1: Myo-Inositol
Myo-inositol is a versatile compound that serves as a precursor for important molecules and participates in various cellular processes. It is integral to cell signaling pathways, acts as a messenger within cells, and contributes to the structure and function of cell membranes through inositol phospholipids. Additionally, Myo-inositol aids in maintaining proper water balance, assists in adapting to osmotic changes, influences neurotransmitter activity in the brain, enhances insulin sensitivity, and holds promise for supporting reproductive health, particularly in individuals with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
What is D Chiro Inositol
D-chiro-inositol (DCI) is a naturally occurring inositol isomer that plays a crucial role in various physiological processes within the human body. Inositol is a type of sugar alcohol and belongs to the vitamin B complex family. While Myo-inositol is the most abundant and well-known form of inositol, D-chiro-inositol has been gaining attention for its unique functions and potential health benefits, particularly in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and insulin resistance.
D-chiro-inositol has the same chemical formula as Myo-inositol, C6H12O6, but a different arrangement of hydroxyl groups around the carbon ring. It is a cyclic six-carbon sugar alcohol with six hydroxyl groups attached to the carbon atoms. The name “D-chiro-inositol” refers to the stereochemistry of the molecule, where the hydroxyl groups at the second, fourth, and sixth carbon positions are in the cis configuration.
Figure 2: D and L Chiro-inositol
D-chiro-inositol is a crucial compound with diverse roles in cellular processes and signaling pathways. Its primary functions encompass improving insulin sensitivity for efficient glucose metabolism, particularly vital for regulating blood sugar levels and reducing the risk of insulin resistance linked to type 2 diabetes. Notably, D-chiro-inositol has been extensively studied for its ability to support ovarian function and hormonal equilibrium, offering potential benefits for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) by enhancing ovulation and restoring menstrual regularity. Additionally, it serves as a building block for vital inositol phospholipids that contribute to cell signaling and membrane structure. D-chiro-inositol supplementation shows promise in addressing aspects of PCOS and managing conditions like insulin resistance and diabetes, potentially aiding fertility by promoting ovulation and hormonal balance.
Similarities Between Myo Inositol and D Chiro Inositol
- Both Myo-inositol and D-chiro-inositol are naturally occurring compounds found in various plant-based foods.
- Both isomers are involved in cellular signaling pathways and serve as precursors for inositol phospholipids.
- They are water-soluble compounds. They dissolve easily in water, allowing for efficient absorption and transport throughout the body.
- Both isomers have implications for insulin signaling and glucose metabolism.
Difference Between Myo Inositol and D Chiro Inositol
Definition
Myo-inositol, often referred to as “inositol,” is the most prevalent form of inositol in nature, with the chemical name “cis-1,2,3,5-trans-4,6-cyclohexanehexol.” D-chiro-inositol is a stereoisomer of Myo-inositol, characterized by its distinct arrangement of hydroxyl groups around the cyclohexane ring, and its full chemical name is “cis-1,2,4-trans-3,5,6-cyclohexanehexol.”
Natural Occurrence
Myo-inositol is the most common form of inositol found in nature and is abundantly present in many foods, particularly in grains, fruits, and nuts. D-chiro-inositol is present in smaller amounts in certain foods, but it is generally less common than Myo-inositol.
Stereochemistry
Myo-inositol has a cis-1,2,3,5-trans-4,6 configuration, meaning that the hydroxyl groups at positions 1, 2, 3, and 5 are on the same side of the cyclohexane ring, while the hydroxyl groups at positions 4 and 6 are on the opposite side. D-chiro-inositol has a cis-1,2,4-trans-3,5,6 configuration, which results in different spatial arrangements of hydroxyl groups around the cyclohexane ring compared to Myo-inositol.
Conclusion
In brief, Myo-inositol is the prevalent version of inositol found in nature and can be found abundantly in various foods, especially grains, fruits, and nuts. On the other hand, D-chiro-inositol is present in smaller quantities in specific foods, making it generally less widespread compared to Myo-inositol. Thus, this is the main difference between myo inositol and D chiro inositol.
Reference:
1. “Inositol: Health Benefits, Safety Information, Dosage, and More.” WebMD.
Image Courtesy:
1. “Myo-inositol” By Kupirijo at English Wikipedia (CC BY 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia
2. “Chiro-inositol” By Kupirijo at English Wikipedia (CC BY 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia
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