biotin

[ bahy-uh-tin ]

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. a crystalline, water-soluble vitamin, C 10 H 16 O 3 N 2 S, of the vitamin B complex, that is present in all living cells and functions as a growth factor and as a catalyst in carboxylation reactions.

biotin

/ ˈbaɪətɪn /

noun

1. a vitamin of the B complex, abundant in egg yolk and liver, deficiency of which causes dermatitis and loss of hair. Formula: C 10 H 16 N 2 O 3 S See also avidin

biotin

/ bī′ə-tĭn /

1. A water-soluble organic acid belonging to the vitamin B complex that is important in the metabolism of carbohydrates and fatty acids. It is also a cofactor for some coenzymes that catalyze the synthesis of organic acids in the body. Biotin is found in liver, egg yolks, milk, yeast, and some vegetables. Chemical formula: C 10 H 16 N 2 O 3 S.

Word History and Origins

Origin of biotin¹

1935–40; < German Biotin < Greek biotḗ life + -in -in ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of biotin¹

C20: biot- from Greek biotē life, way of life + -in

Example Sentences

These nucleotides also contain a tag called biotin that can be used to fish the RNA out of a cell.

From Science Daily

The approach involves genetically modifying a particular organ within an animal so that its cells affix a marker, the molecule biotin, to proteins due to be secreted.

From Science Magazine

To counteract this, I started using a shampoo containing biotin.

From Seattle Times

Newer products include a hair strengthening collection with biotin and Jamaican castor oil, and a wig care collection that uses apple cider vinegar to remove build-up from weaves and wigs.

From Los Angeles Times

Krueger notes that biotin, a common hair product additive, isn’t that important for hair health and can interfere with lab tests.

From National Geographic