Scientists Identify Genes that Control Citrus Carotenoid Content

Citrus fruits are particularly rich in carotenoids, which give them their color and many of their nutritional properties. Recently, a team of scientists from the French Agricultural Research Center for International Development (CIRAD) has identified genes involved in the varying levels of carotenoids in different citrus species. The discovery may lead to citrus varieties with enhanced nutrient content.

There are five key stages in the carotenoid biosynthetic pathway, and on the last stage the pathway can proceed to two separate branches depending on the genes expressed. The scientists found out that mandarin and oranges, which naturally contain the highest carotenoid levels, use both branches of the carotenoid biosynthetic process, accumulating all the different compounds. Environmental factors were also found to play a major role in determining the fruits’ carotenoid contents. Grapefruit for instance, accumulates more lycopene in the tropics, boosting the red color of its flesh.

Read the full article at http://www.cirad.fr/en/actualite/communique.php?id=959