How Does Thiamine Deficiency Impact Cellular Metabolism?
Thiamine is an essential cofactor for enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism, such as pyruvate dehydrogenase and alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase. In the absence of thiamine, these enzymes cannot function properly, leading to disrupted Krebs cycle and impaired energy production.
This metabolic disruption results in an accumulation of pyruvate and lactate, leading to lactic acidosis. The energy deficit particularly affects tissues with high metabolic demands, such as the brain and heart.
