Diphosphothiamine

/ˌdaɪfɒsfoʊˈθaɪəmiːn/ noun

Definition

A coenzyme form of thiamine (vitamin B1) that contains two phosphate groups and is essential for cellular energy production.

Etymology

From di- (two) + phospho- (phosphorus/phosphate groups) + thiamine (vitamin B1, from Greek 'theion' sulfur + amine). Identified in the 1930s as scientists unraveled how vitamins actually work in metabolism.

Kelly Says

This molecule is why thiamine is called a 'B vitamin'—it doesn't store energy like glucose, but without it your body can't extract energy from food at all, which is why thiamine deficiency causes beriberi disease.

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