Abstract:
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is an essential vitamin involved with
erythropoiesis. The human body is incapable of synthesizing B12. We rely on the bacterial flora
located in our gastrointestinal tract synthesize and secrete vitamin B12, which can then be
absorbed through our intestines and used elsewhere in the body. Vitamin B12 is an essential
cofactor for methionine synthase and methylmalonyl-CoA mutase. Vitamin B12 deficiency will
lead to macrocytic anemia. Without B12, reticulocytes cannot differentiate into erythrocytes.
The human intestinal microbiota is essential for vitamin B12 synthesis in the host. Antibiotics
kill the bacteria in our gastrointestinal tract, as well as other bacteria. Methods: Daily injections
of antibiotics will be given to male Lewis rats. Vitamin B12 and glucose will be fed to the
experimental and glucose will be fed to the control. After 2 months, fast overnight and obtain
blood samples by milking the tail. Vitamin B12, methylmalonic acid, homocysteine and
reticulocyte serum concentrations will be determined using spectrophotometric assays using
biochemical kits and complete blood counts. Blood smears can be used to look for abnormally
large erythrocytes. Anticipated Results: A statistically significant increase in vitamin B12 and
statistically significant decrease in methylmalonic acid, homocysteine and reticulocyte serum
concentrations. This will confirm that oral administration of vitamin B12 will increase and
decrease these levels respectively in rats taking long-term antibiotics. Conclusions: Such new
information will provide new therapeutic therapies for those taking tong-term antibiotics.
