Neurosporene

Neurosporene is a type of carotenoid, a class of organic pigments that are naturally occurring in the chloroplasts and chromoplasts of plants, algae, and photosynthetic bacteria. Neurosporene is a precursor in the biosynthesis of other carotenoids, including lycopene, which is a key intermediate in the production of many other types of carotenoids.

Structure and Properties

Neurosporene is a tetraterpene, meaning it is composed of four terpene units. It has a linear structure with three conjugated double bonds, which gives it its characteristic color. The molecule is non-polar and lipophilic, meaning it is soluble in fats and oils but not in water.

Biosynthesis

The biosynthesis of neurosporene begins with the condensation of two molecules of geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP), a common precursor in the biosynthesis of terpenes and terpenoids. This reaction is catalyzed by the enzyme phytoene synthase, which removes the pyrophosphate groups and forms a carbon-carbon double bond to produce phytoene. Phytoene is then desaturated by the enzyme phytoene desaturase to produce neurosporene.

Function

As a carotenoid, neurosporene plays a crucial role in protecting cells from the damaging effects of reactive oxygen species, which are produced during photosynthesis. It does this by quenching singlet oxygen, a highly reactive form of oxygen, and by scavenging free radicals.

See Also

• Carotenoid
• Lycopene
• Geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate
• Phytoene synthase
• Phytoene desaturase