An isomer of glucose that has traditionally been considered to be a B vitamin although it has an uncertain status as a vitamin and a deficiency syndrome has not been identified in man. (From Martindale, The Extra Pharmacopoeia, 30th ed, p1379) Inositol phospholipids are important in signal transduction.
A carbohydrate derivative, a constituent of phospholipids (phosphatidyl inositols) involved in membrane structure and as part of the signalling mechanism for hormones which act at the cell surface.
A sugar-like substance included in the B- complex vitamins that is an important growth factor for certain yeasts.
A carbohydrate that is an essential ingredient of the inositol phosphate second messenger system. Inositol is a six-carbon sugar that is related to D-glucose.
A compound similar to a hexose sugar. Inositol is present in many foods, in particular in the bran of cereal grain. It is sometimes classified as a vitamin but it can be synthesized by most animals and there is no evidence that it is essential to man.
A sugar compound that is one constituent of some phospholipids found in cells. It is found in many foods but, although sometimes classified as a vitamin, is not a vital part of the human diet.
A sugar-like crystalline substance found in the liver, kidney, skeletal muscle, and heart muscle, as well as in the leaves and seeds of most plants. It is part of the vitamin B complex. Deficiency of inositol in experimental animals results in hair loss, eye defects, and growth retardation. Its significance in human nutrition has not been established.