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Drug Toxicity in Embryonic Development I pp 407–432Cite as

Alterations in Folate Metabolism as a Possible Mechanism of Embryotoxicity

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Part of the book series: Handbook of Experimental Pharmacology ((HEP,volume 124 / 1))

Abstract

Interest in folic acid has increased recently as a result of reports of a protective effect of dietary supplementation on the incidence of neural tube defects (NTD) in humans. This chapter will describe folic acid, assays for this vitamin, and characteristics of the deficient state. Biochemical reactions involving folic acid will be reviewed, as will studies which report a protective effect with respect to NTD. A number of compounds which adversely affect folic acid concentrations will be reviewed along with any evidence of a role for folic acid in the developmental toxicity of these compounds.

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Authors
  1. D. K. Hansen
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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Reproductive Toxicology Division (MD-71), National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory, US Environmental Protection Agency, 27711, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA

    Robert J. Kavlock Ph.D. (Director) (Director)

  2. Miami Valley Laboratories, The Procter and Gamble Company, P.O. Box 538707, 45253, Cincinnati, OH, USA

    George P. Daston Ph.D.

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Hansen, D.K. (1997). Alterations in Folate Metabolism as a Possible Mechanism of Embryotoxicity. In: Kavlock, R.J., Daston, G.P. (eds) Drug Toxicity in Embryonic Development I. Handbook of Experimental Pharmacology, vol 124 / 1. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-60445-4_15

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