Which vitamin is crucial for DNA synthesis and repair?

Folate, also known as Vitamin B9, plays a vital role in DNA synthesis and repair due to its involvement in the formation of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of DNA. This vitamin is essential for cell division and growth, particularly in rapidly dividing tissues such as those found in embryos, making it especially important during periods of significant growth like pregnancy.

Folate contributes to the synthesis of purines and pyrimidines, essential components of DNA and RNA. Additionally, it is involved in the process of methylation, which is a key chemical reaction in regulating gene expression and maintaining genomic stability. Adequate levels of folate can help prevent DNA damage, promote repair mechanisms, and reduce the risk of some types of cancer linked to genetic mutations.

While Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Vitamin K each have their own important functions in maintaining health, they do not play a direct and crucial role in the processes of DNA synthesis and repair in the same way that folate does. Thus, folate is identified as the critical vitamin for these processes.