Vitamin C deficiency: more than just a nutritional disorder.

Although vitamin C deficiency and scurvy are generally considered as pure nutritional disorders, only a minority of the vitamin C concentration is determined by food intake. In the presence of transition metals (iron and copper), the antiscorbutic factor shifts from an antioxidant to a pro-oxidant function. Haptoglobin (Hp) is a plasma α-2 glycoprotein characterized by 3 common phenotypes (Hp 1-1, Hp 2-1 and Hp 2-2).

Vitamin C deficiency and scurvy are not only a dietary problem but are codetermined by the haptoglobin polymorphism.

Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) is prone to oxidation in vivo. The human plasma protein haptoglobin (Hp) shows a genetic polymorphism with 3 major phenotypes (Hp 1-1, Hp 2-1, and Hp 2-2) that show important functional differences. Despite an adequate nutritional supply, in Hp 2-2 individuals (most common among Asian populations) vitamin C is markedly lower in concentration and particularly prone to oxidation in vivo.

Serum vitamin C concentration is influenced by haptoglobin polymorphism and iron status in Chinese.

Background: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant (free radical scavenger). Apart from the diet, other factors regulating its catabolism may affect its serum concentration. Haptoglobin (Hp) is a plasma protein participating in iron metabolism.

[Formulation and stability study of sucred solutions for a clinical trial in neonates].

A randomized, double blind clinical trial have been initiated in the neonatology unit of CHRU in Lille to compare the analgesic effect of two oral solutions (25% dextrose and 30% glucose) after heel prick sampling. As part of this trial, the pharmacy was asked to perform the preparation and the randomization. In agreement with good clinical practices and good manufacturing practices, we have valided manufacturing processes, and performed microbiological tests, chromatography control and polarimetric dosage.