Inositol - Definition and Overview

Inositol plays an important role as a second messenger in a cell.

It is involved in :

• cytoskeleton assembly;
• nerve guidance (Epsin);
• controlling intracellular calcium (Ca ²⁺) concentration;
• maintaining membrane potential of the cell.

Some preliminary results of studies on inositol supplements show promising results for people suffering from problems such as OCD.

Chemical formula of Inositol is: C₆O₆H₁₂ The ring of inositol is in the chair conformation, with 1,3,4,5, and 6^th hydroxyls positioned latteral, and 2^nd hydroxyl group are equatorial to the plane of the inositol ring.

External link

• An Image of Inositol (http://www.gasresources.net/ThrmcCnstrnts_files/image012.jpg)