Inositol

The structure of Inositol

Inositol, or cis-1,2,3,5-trans-4,6-cyclohexanehexol, is a cyclic polyalcohol that plays an important role as a second messenger in a cell, in the form of inositol phosphates. It is found in many foods, particularly in cereals with high bran content.

It is classified as a member of the vitamin B complex, though it is not considered a vitamin per se, since the human body can synthesize it.

Function

It is involved in :

cytoskeleton assembly
nerve guidance (Epsin)
controlling intracellular calcium (Ca2+) concentration
maintaining membrane potential of the cell.
enhancing the activity of serotonin
It is also involved in the breakdown of fats and reducing blood cholesterol.

Inositol phosphates are involved in gene expression (Wu 2003 and OShea 2003 both in Science).

Clinical implications

Some preliminary results of studies on inositol supplements show promising results for people suffering from problems such as bulimia, panic disorder and bipolar depression.

Inositol has been found in double-blind studies to be an effective treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It is equal in effectiveness to SSRIs and is virtually free from side effects[1][2].

References

Palatnik A, Frolov K, Fux M, Benjamin J (2001). "Double-blind, controlled, crossover trial of inositol versus fluvoxamine for the treatment of panic disorder". Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology 21 (3): 335–339.

Fux M, Levine J, Aviv A, Belmaker RH (1996). "Inositol treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder". American Journal of Psychiatry 153 (9): 1219–21.