D-Chiro-Inositol is a naturally occurring isomer of inositol, a carbohydrate-like compound sometimes grouped with B-vitamins.It plays a key role in cell signaling, especially in pathways related to insulin, ovarian function, and metabolic regulation.
Origin of D-Chiro-Inositol
Chemical Family: D-Chiro-Inositol is a stereoisomer of inositol, which is a cyclohexanehexol (a six-carbon cyclic polyol with six hydroxyl groups).
Natural Sources:
- Found in plants, fruits, legumes, and whole grains.
- Present in small amounts in human tissues, especially in the brain, liver, kidneys, ovaries, and muscle tissue.
Biological Formation:
D-Chiro-Inositol can be formed endogenously by the epimerization of myo-inositol (another inositol isomer) via an enzyme called epimerase.
The conversion rate varies depending on tissue type and metabolic status.
Properties of D-Chiro-Inositol
Chemical Properties:
- Molecular formula: C₆H₁₂O₆
- Molecular weight: ~180.16 g/mol
- Structure: A six-carbon ring with hydroxyl groups, forming a specific stereochemistry distinct from myo-inositol.
- Solubility: Water-soluble due to its multiple hydroxyl groups.
Physical Properties:
- White crystalline powder.
- Hygroscopic (absorbs moisture from the air).
- Stable under normal room temperature but can degrade under high heat or strong acids/bases.
Biological Properties:
- Functions as a secondary messenger in insulin signaling and other cellular pathways.
- Plays a role in glucose metabolism, steroidogenesis, and cell signaling.
- Considered non-toxic with low side-effect profile at common supplemental doses.
Introduction and Significance
D-Chiro-Inositol is part of the inositol family, which are naturally occurring sugar alcohols involved in various cellular signaling processes.
Key Roles:
- Insulin Signaling: D-Chiro-Inositol helps mediate insulin’s effects on glucose uptake, making it important in insulin resistance and metabolic disorders.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): D-Chiro-Inositol supplementation has shown to improve ovarian function, reduce androgen levels, and help restore menstrual regularity in women with PCOS.
- Metabolic Health: It can contribute to better glucose control in conditions like type 2 diabetes.
- Neurotransmission and Mood: Inositol derivatives, including D-Chiro-Inositol, play roles in brain signaling pathways, potentially affecting mood and neurological health.
Summary:
D-Chiro-Inositol is a naturally occurring inositol isomer with important metabolic and reproductive roles. It is water-soluble, biologically active, and used both endogenously in the body and as a nutritional supplement to support insulin sensitivity and reproductive health.