Bioavailability, purity, and classification
In the context of
dietary supplements, terms such as "nucleotides," "RNA," "RNA
yeast extract," and "nucleotides from yeast" are often used interchangeably.
From a technical perspective, however, these are different
categories of raw materials with relevant differences in purity, standardization,
accompanying substances, and, in particular, bioavailability.
This article scientifically classifies the most important
points and explains why individually selected
nucleotides (purified nucleotides) are the more precise and
better controllable option in many applications.
In practice, "RNA yeast extract" (
) usually refers to a yeast extract containing RNA or RNA fragments and nucleotides/nucleosides derived from them (
). It is not a defined single molecule (
), but rather a complex matrix of various yeast components (
).
In contrast, there are individually selected
nucleotides: highly pure, defined nucleotides in a precisely specified
composition.
In the context of
dietary supplements, terms such as "nucleotides," "RNA," "RNA
yeast extract," and "nucleotides from yeast" are often used interchangeably.
From a technical perspective, however, these are different
categories of raw materials with relevant differences in purity, standardization,
accompanying substances, and, in particular, bioavailability.
This article scientifically classifies the most important
points and explains why individually selected
nucleotides (purified nucleotides) are the more precise and
better controllable option in many applications.
In practice, "RNA yeast extract" (
) usually refers to a yeast extract containing RNA or RNA fragments and nucleotides/nucleosides derived from them (
). It is not a defined single molecule (
), but rather a complex matrix of various yeast components (
).
In contrast, there are individually selected
nucleotides: highly pure, defined nucleotides in a precisely specified
composition.
1) Purity & Standardization
Individually selected nucleotides
(purified nucleotides) - Contain precisely defined and highly pure nucleotides
. - Composition and dosage
are reproducible. - Quality and active ingredient content are consistent
and easily controlled analytically.
RNA yeast extract / yeast extract - Natural mixture of organic raw materials. - In addition to nucleotides, it often contains proteins, peptides, RNA fragments, and other yeast components (
). - The composition may vary naturally (
, even with standardization).
Interim conclusion: For controlled supplementation, individually selected
nucleotides have a clear advantage due to their better standardization.
2) Bioavailability & utilization
, bioavailability describes, in simple terms, how efficiently a substance is absorbed from the intestine and made available to the metabolism.
Individually selected nucleotides - Are already present as monophosphates. - Can be absorbed more quickly
and introduced into nucleotide metabolism. - No significant enzymatic "release process" from a matrix
is required
.
RNA yeast extract / yeast extract - Nucleotides are partly embedded in RNA structures or bound to proteins
. - The organism must first split them enzymatically
and release them. - This can slow down absorption and make availability less direct
.
Interim conclusion: In terms of bioavailability, individually selected
nucleotides are generally the more direct and efficient form.
3) Accompanying substances, purines & compatibility
ly selected nucleotides - Free from yeast components, proteins, and potential allergens. - Lower risk of adverse reactions due to
matrix components.
RNA yeast extract / yeast extract - Often contains additional nucleosides and purine bases.
- Purines can increase uric acid formation (relevant for
gout/hyperuricemia). - Other yeast components are not optimal for every target group
.
Interim conclusion: For sensitive target groups or when maximum control is required
, compatibility often favors individually selected nucleotides.
4) Physiological classification: targeted supply vs. non-specific matrix effects
Individually selected nucleotides - Enable targeted supply in defined quantities
. - Useful in phases of increased demand, e.g., during high cell turnover rates
(intestinal epithelium, immune cells) or after intense stress.
RNA yeast extract / yeast extract - Potential effects may originate not only from nucleotides (
) but also from yeast components (e.g., β-glucans, mannans). - This makes the effect less specific and more difficult to attribute (
).
5) Application perspective: When is which raw material form appropriate?
Individually selected nucleotides are particularly suitable when: - defined, reproducible
quantities of active ingredients are required - purity, standardization, and bioavailability
are paramount - accompanying substances (e.g., purines, proteins) are to be deliberately avoided
- scientifically precise classification is desired
RNA yeast extract can be understood as a "complete package" of yeast—potentially
with matrix effects, but with less controllability. Often
cheaper, but should be dosed with caution due to the accompanying substances.
Digression: Nucleotides, NMN, and NAD+
In the context of longevity and performance, NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide)
and NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide)
are also frequently discussed.
NMN is a nucleotide-like molecule and a precursor in NAD+ metabolism (
).
NAD+ is a key coenzyme in energy and redox processes.
Important: Even though these topics are often mentioned together, nucleotides
as a group of raw materials (e.g., cytidine, uridine, guanosine, or adenosine derivatives)
are not automatically equivalent to NMN/NAD+ strategies. Clear
scientific communication makes a clear distinction between the raw material form, metabolic pathway
, and objective.
Conclusion
The main advantage of individually selected
nucleotides over RNA yeast extract lies in: - higher
purity and standardization - better bioavailability (direct
availability as monophosphates) - precise, controllable dosage
- lower contamination from accompanying substances (e.g., purines,
yeast components)
For a defined, easily controllable
nucleotide supply, individually selected nucleotides are therefore the more scientifically rigorous choice in many
cases.
Note: This article is for
informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. If you have existing
conditions (e.g., gout/hyperuricemia) or are taking medication, you should consult a specialist before
taking dietary supplements.
Technical classification at Vegana Natura
The development and classification of our
nucleotide approaches is carried out in collaboration with Dr. Peter Köppel
(biochemist with many years of research experience in the field of nucleotides).