In folic acid deficiency which of the following is excreted in urine
**Core Concept**
Folic acid deficiency leads to decreased synthesis of tetrahydrofolate, a crucial cofactor in one-carbon metabolism. This deficiency affects various bodily functions, including DNA synthesis and repair. The body's response to folic acid deficiency involves the excretion of a specific metabolite in the urine.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
In folic acid deficiency, the body increases the excretion of formiminoglutamic acid (FIGLU) in the urine. FIGLU is a by-product of histidine catabolism, which requires tetrahydrofolate as a cofactor. When tetrahydrofolate levels are low, the enzyme histidase cannot convert histidine to glutamic acid, resulting in the accumulation of FIGLU, which is then excreted in the urine. This process is a key indicator of folic acid deficiency.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is incorrect as it does not directly relate to the consequences of folic acid deficiency.
* **Option B:** This option is incorrect as it is not a metabolite associated with folic acid deficiency.
* **Option D:** This option is incorrect as it is not directly related to the effects of folic acid deficiency on one-carbon metabolism.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Folic acid deficiency can lead to megaloblastic anemia, which is characterized by the production of abnormally large red blood cells that are unable to function properly. This condition highlights the importance of folic acid in maintaining normal red blood cell production.
**Correct Answer:** C. Formiminoglutamic acid (FIGLU)