Which Vitamin deficiency is associated with Pellagra?

Pellagra is a condition characterized by a classic triad of symptoms: dermatitis, diarrhea, and dementia. It is specifically caused by a deficiency in Vitamin B3, also known as niacin. Niacin plays critical roles in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, as it is a precursor for crucial coenzymes NAD and NADP, which are involved in numerous biochemical reactions including those in energy metabolism and DNA repair.

When there is insufficient niacin intake, these metabolic processes can be disrupted, leading to the symptoms observed in Pellagra. Historically, this condition has been associated with diets that are low in niacin and tryptophan, particularly in populations where corn is a staple food.

The other options represent different vitamins that are important for various physiological functions, but they are not directly linked to the development of Pellagra. Vitamin B1 (thiamine) is primarily associated with neural health and energy metabolism. Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is involved in amino acid metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis. Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is crucial for red blood cell formation and neurological function. However, none of these vitamins are associated with the symptoms or metabolic dysfunctions characteristic of Pellagra. Thus,