Vitamin C has, besides its basic biological role to protect against scurvy (i.e. its role in collagen synthesis), various extra-antiscorbutic functions: in microsomal hydroxylating reactions including cytochrome P-450 cycle (i.e. in cholestrol catabolism and in detoxication of xenobiotics); in carnitine biosynthesis; in neurotransmitter metabolism and in immunological processes. It is probable that maximum steady-state levels of ascorbate in tissues are optimum for these, functions and for human health. These maximum levels could be achieved only with vitamin C intake several fold higher than officially recommended doses.
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