Phytoene

 ( Carotenoids ) 

Phytoene () is a 40-carbon intermediate in the biosynthesis of . The synthesis of phytoene is the first committed step in the synthesis of carotenoids in Plant. Phytoene is produced from two molecules of geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP) by the action of the enzyme phytoene synthase. Phytoene synthase The two GGPP molecules are condensed together followed by removal of diphosphate and proton shift leading to the formation of phytoene.

Dietary phytoene and phytofluene are found in a number of human tissues including the liver, lung, breast, prostate, colon, and skin. Accumulation of these carotenoids in the skin may protect the skin by several mechanisms: acting as Photoprotection, as Antioxidant, and as anti-inflammatory agents.

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Structure Phytoene is a symmetric molecule containing three conjugated double bonds. Phytoene has a UV-Vis absorption spectrum typical for a triply conjugated system with its main absorption maximum in the UVB range at 286 nm and with ε1% of 915.

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Sources Analysis of several fruits and vegetables showed that phytoene and phytofluene are found in majority of fruits and vegetables. In contrast to all other carotenoids, phytoene and phytofluene, the first carotenoid precursors in the biosynthetic pathway of other carotenoids, absorb light in the UV range.

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History The structure of phytoene was established and proven by total synthesis, by the Basil Weedon group in 1966.

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Further reading

• Liki von Oppen-Bezalel (2019). 9780429061639, CRC Press. ISBN 9780429061639

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