Apocarotenoid
Apocarotenoid[edit | edit source]
Apocarotenoids are a class of organic compounds derived from the oxidative cleavage of carotenoids. These compounds play significant roles in various biological processes, including plant growth regulation, pigmentation, and aroma production. They are also important in human nutrition and health due to their antioxidant properties.
Structure and Formation[edit | edit source]
Apocarotenoids are formed by the enzymatic cleavage of carotenoids, which are tetraterpenoids composed of eight isoprene units. The cleavage can occur at different positions along the carotenoid molecule, leading to a variety of apocarotenoids with different chain lengths and functional groups.
The enzymes responsible for this cleavage are known as carotenoid cleavage dioxygenases (CCDs). These enzymes introduce molecular oxygen into the carotenoid structure, resulting in the formation of apocarotenoids. The specific cleavage site and the type of CCD enzyme involved determine the structure of the resulting apocarotenoid.
Biological Functions[edit | edit source]
Apocarotenoids serve several important functions in plants and animals:
- Plant Hormones: Some apocarotenoids, such as abscisic acid, are crucial plant hormones involved in stress responses and developmental processes.
- Pigments: They contribute to the pigmentation of flowers and fruits, which is important for attracting pollinators and seed dispersers.
- Aroma Compounds: Apocarotenoids are responsible for the aroma of many fruits and flowers, enhancing their appeal to animals and humans.
- Signaling Molecules: In plants, they can act as signaling molecules that regulate growth and development.
Health Benefits[edit | edit source]
In humans, apocarotenoids are valued for their antioxidant properties, which help protect cells from oxidative damage. Some apocarotenoids, such as beta-apo-8'-carotenal, have been studied for their potential health benefits, including:
- Antioxidant Activity: They can neutralize free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases.
- Vision Health: Certain apocarotenoids are precursors to vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy vision.
- Immune Support: They may enhance immune function and protect against infections.
Sources of Apocarotenoids[edit | edit source]
Apocarotenoids are found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, particularly those with vibrant colors. Common dietary sources include:
- Carrots
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Citrus fruits
Research and Applications[edit | edit source]
Research into apocarotenoids is ongoing, with studies focusing on their biosynthesis, regulation, and potential applications in agriculture and medicine. Understanding the role of apocarotenoids in plant biology can lead to the development of crops with improved nutritional and sensory qualities.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
External Links[edit | edit source]
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia |
Let Food Be Thy Medicine Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates |
Translate this page: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
தமிழ்,
తెలుగు,
Urdu,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
বাংলা
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
Greek,
português do Brasil,
polski,
română,
русский,
Nederlands,
norsk,
svenska,
suomi,
Italian
Middle Eastern & African
عربى,
Turkish,
Persian,
Hebrew,
Afrikaans,
isiZulu,
Kiswahili,
Other
Bulgarian,
Hungarian,
Czech,
Swedish,
മലയാളം,
मराठी,
ਪੰਜਾਬੀ,
ગુજરાતી,
Portuguese,
Ukrainian
Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.
Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD