A new study by scientists from the University of North Carolina showed that three recessive genes are responsible for the orange color of carrots. Carrots of this color contain many carotenoids, natural pigments that reduce the risk of eye diseases and protect cells from premature aging. results published In the journal Nature.
Analysis of the genomes of more than 600 carrot varieties has shown that the orange color of this root vegetable is determined by three specific genes. In order for the carrot to achieve this shade, these genes must be recessive (not expressed). Orange carrots appeared in Western Europe in the 15th and 16th centuries, the researchers added. Most likely, this variety was developed by crossing white and yellow carrots. The new variety quickly gained popularity due to the bright color and sweet taste of root vegetables.
Orange carrots are also rich in carotenoids – plant pigments. These compounds protect the membranes of living cells from the destruction of reactive oxygen species. This process is called oxidative stress. Additionally, consuming carotenoids in foods reduces the risk of eye diseases. They are reliable protectors of photochemical damage to the retina, the membrane of the eye that plays a critical role in vision.
Russian scientists before saidWhy the bluegrass genome is unique.