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Thiamine Pyrophosphate (TPP)
Active coenzyme form of thiamine that participates in α-ketoacid decarboxylation reactions (pyruvate dehydrogenase, α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase, branched-chain α-ketoacid dehydrogenase) and transketolase in the pentose phosphate pathway.
Also: Cocarboxylase, TDP, TPP, Thiamine diphosphate
Thiamine pyrophosphate is the cofactor whose deficiency produces beriberi (wet and dry forms) and, with alcoholism, Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. Erythrocyte transketolase activity with and without TPP addition (TPP effect) is a functional biomarker of thiamine status. Refeeding syndrome can precipitate acute thiamine deficiency by shifting metabolism back into carbohydrate oxidation, making thiamine repletion mandatory before glucose infusion in malnourished patients.
How one textbook covers it
Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease, 12th ed. — Ch 23: Thiamine
Thiamine pyrophosphate is the cofactor whose deficiency produces beriberi (wet and dry forms) and, with alcoholism, Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome. Erythrocyte transketolase activity with and without TPP addition (TPP effect) is a functional biomarker of thiamine status. Refeeding syndrome can precipitate acute thiamine deficiency by shifting metabolism back into carbohydrate oxidation, making thiamine repletion mandatory before glucose infusion in malnourished patients.
Related terms
Refeeding syndrome, TCA cycle, Thiamine, Wernicke encephalopathy