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Folate
Principle
Folates are a subset of vitamins related to pteroylglutamic acid (PGA) that function as co-enzymes in metabolic reactions involving the transfer of single carbon units. Folate and vitamin B12 are necessary for DNA synthesis, and consequently normal red blood cell maturation. Folate deficiency can lead to macrocytic (megaloblastic) anemia.
Folate is obtained from dietary sources including fruits, green and leafy vegetables, yeast, and organ meats. It is absorbed from the small intestine and stored in the liver. Low folate intake, malabsorption due to gastrointestinal disease, pregnancy, and the use of drugs such as phenytoin, oral contraceptives, and excessive alcohol consumption can lead to folate deficiency. Low serum folate concentrations are an early indication of folate depletion and precede tissue depletion.
Adequate folate concentrations during pregnancy are important for prevention of neural tube defects (NTDs). Folate supplementation prior to conception and during early pregnancy reduces the incidence of NTD-affected births.
Specimen Requirements
Specimen
Collection
Processing
Storage and Transport
Store/transport at 15–30°C for ≤8 hours; 2–8°C for ≤48 hours; freeze at ≤ –20°C if delayed. Avoid repeated freeze–thaw cycles.
Unacceptable Specimens
Hemolyzed or unseparated specimens.
Method
Enhanced Chemiluminescence.
Normal Range
5.9 to > 24.8 ng/mL
Turnaround Time
References
- Bailey Lynn B. (Ed.) Folate in Health and Disease. Shane B, Folate Chemistry and Metabolism. New York: Marcel Dekker; 1995.
- Chanarin I. (ed) The Megaloblastic Anaemias. ed. 3. Oxford: Blackwell Scientific Publications; 1990.
- MRC Vitamin Study Research Group. Prevention of Neural Tube Defects: Results of the Medical Research Council Study. Lancet. 1991;238:131–137.
- Bailey, Lynn B. (Ed.) Folate in Health and Disease. Lindenbaum J & Allen RH, Clinical Spectrum and Diagnosis of Folate Deficiency. New York: Marcel Dekker; 1995.