pantothenic acid science definition

A water-soluble organic acid belonging to the vitamin B complex that is an essential component of coenzyme A. It is a derivative of the amino acid alanine, and it is important in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. Pantothenic acid is found in all animal and plant cells, but it is particularly abundant in liver, rice bran, molasses, and many vegetables. Chemical formula: C₉H₁₇NO₅.