Question

Below are descriptions of micronutrients not discussed in class. You may use any reference material available to you to identify the names of these compounds. Write the name of the compound in the space below the description. You will receive one point for each nutrient you name correctly. Remember, these were not discussed in class, but you may have heard of them in discussions of nutrition or in nutrition related articles. Good Luck!!

1. This one is usually identified as a toxic element, but it has been shown to play a minor role in regulating gene expression and DNA synthesis in white blood cells. It has recently gained attention because of its presence in apple juice.
   
2. Identified as an enhancer of insulin metabolism, the addition of this nutrient seems to help type 2 diabetics better control high blood glucose levels. Often administered as a picolenate compound, is found in great abundance in mushrooms.
   
3. Often found in lean meat, this nutrient has been found to be necessary in over 50 enzymatic pathways. You may find this in the drug store as a lozenge to fight off a cold! A genetic disorder called Acrodermatitis enteropathica causes an inability to absorb this substance.
   
4. These compounds are found in plants and while not nutrients, have been found to have properties beneficial to humans. Many are classified as antioxidants and therefore may have cancer-preventing properties. Flavonoids, found in chocolate are an example of this class of compounds.
   
5. Once referred to a Vitamin B₁₇ this substance is found in peach pits (seeds) and was called a cure for cancer. However, no metabolic role has ever been identified for this substance, in fact it could actually be harmful to ingest.

Answer 1

1. Arsenic - This one is usually identified as a toxic element, but it has been shown to play a minor role in regulating gene expression and DNA synthesis in white blood cells. It has recently gained attention because of its presence in apple juice.

2. Chromium - Identified as an enhancer of insulin metabolism, the addition of this nutrient seems to help type 2 diabetics better control high blood glucose levels. Often administered as a picolenate compound, is found in great abundance in mushrooms.

3. Zinc - Often found in lean meat, this nutrient has been found to be necessary in over 50 enzymatic pathways. You may find this in the drug store as a lozenge to fight off a cold! A genetic disorder called Acrodermatitis enteropathica causes an inability to absorb this substance.

4. Procyanidin - These compounds are found in plants and while not nutrients, have been found to have properties beneficial to humans. Many are classified as antioxidants and therefore may have cancer-preventing properties. Flavonoids, found in chocolate are an example of this class of compounds.

5. Amygdalin - Once referred to a Vitamin B17 this substance is found in peach pits (seeds) and was called a cure for cancer. However, no metabolic role has ever been identified for this substance, in fact it could actually be harmful to ingest.