From Nutrient to Nanocarrier: The Multifaceted Role of Vitamin B12 in Drug Delivery.

Vitamin B12 (B12), a crucial water-soluble vitamin, plays an essential role in various cellular functions, including DNA synthesis and cellular metabolism. This review explores recent advancements in B12 delivery systems and their potential applications in drug delivery. The unique absorption pathways of B12, which involve specific binding proteins and receptors, are highlighted, emphasizing the vitamin's protective mechanisms that enhance its bioavailability. The review discusses the intricate multi-protein network involved in B12 metabolism and the implications of B12 deficiency, which can lead to significant health issues, including neurological and hematological disorders. Additionally, the potential of B12 as a drug carrier to improve the pharmacokinetic properties of poorly bioavailable medications is examined. The findings suggest that optimizing B12 delivery could enhance therapeutic outcomes in nanomedicine and other clinical applications.