What is the function of intrinsic factor?

What is the function of intrinsic factor?

• A. Absorption of iron from food
• B. Binding vitamin B12 for transportation
• C. Absorption of vitamin B12 from food
• D. Protection of RBC from destruction

Answer: (C)

The function of intrinsic factor is primarily to facilitate the absorption of vitamin B12 from food in the intestines. When vitamin B12 is ingested, it binds to intrinsic factor, a glycoprotein produced by the parietal cells in the stomach. This complex is essential for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the ileum, the final segment of the small intestine. Without intrinsic factor, vitamin B12 cannot be effectively absorbed, leading to potential deficiencies that can result in anemia and neurological issues. The other options center on different aspects of nutrient absorption and blood cell health but do not accurately describe the role of intrinsic factor. For instance, while iron absorption is crucial, it involves a different set of mechanisms independent of intrinsic factor. Binding vitamin B12 for transportation is part of what intrinsic factor does, but the primary role emphasized in the clinical context is its role in absorption. Lastly, the protection of red blood cells from destruction relates to other mechanisms in the body and is not a function of intrinsic factor. Hence, the choice reflecting the absorption of vitamin B12 from food is the most accurate representation of intrinsic factor’s primary role.

The function of intrinsic factor is primarily to facilitate the absorption of vitamin B12 from food in the intestines. When vitamin B12 is ingested, it binds to intrinsic factor, a glycoprotein produced by the parietal cells in the stomach. This complex is essential for the absorption of vitamin B12 in the ileum, the final segment of the small intestine. Without intrinsic factor, vitamin B12 cannot be effectively absorbed, leading to potential deficiencies that can result in anemia and neurological issues.

The other options center on different aspects of nutrient absorption and blood cell health but do not accurately describe the role of intrinsic factor. For instance, while iron absorption is crucial, it involves a different set of mechanisms independent of intrinsic factor. Binding vitamin B12 for transportation is part of what intrinsic factor does, but the primary role emphasized in the clinical context is its role in absorption. Lastly, the protection of red blood cells from destruction relates to other mechanisms in the body and is not a function of intrinsic factor. Hence, the choice reflecting the absorption of vitamin B12 from food is the most accurate representation of intrinsic factor’s primary role.