Final answer:
Folate is a B vitamin that is essential for DNA synthesis, maintaining a healthy nervous system, and assisting with blood cell formation. It's particularly crucial during the early stages of pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects.
Step-by-step explanation:
Folate is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a pivotal role in various bodily functions. When it comes to the options provided in the question, folate is particularly known for being involved in DNA synthesis. This essential B vitamin functions as a coenzyme in nucleic acid metabolism, which is crucial for the synthesis of new cells, including erythrocytes (red blood cells). Additionally, folate maintains a healthy nervous system and assists with blood cell formation. It is also critical to the healthy development of the fetal neural tube during pregnancy, preventing defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly.