Publisher's Synopsis
This volume is concerned with the processes of carotenoid synthesis, modification, and breakdown in living organisms. Information from biochemistry and molecular genetics is integrated to give an up-to-date survey of current knowledge about biosynthesis pathways, reaction mechanisms and their regulation.;The book emphasizes the practical aspects of labelling, enzyme studies, and the isolation and characterization of genes. Moreover, it covers the further conversion of carotenoids into smaller molecules, including important aroma compounds.;As constituents of the human diet, carotenoids are precursors of vitamin A, and are considered to be effective in protection against major diseases, including cancer. Understanding the absorption, transport and metabolism of carotenoids is therefore a prerequisite for studies of bioavailability and biological actions.;Knowledge of carotenoid metabolism facilitates the optimization of commercial feeding practices, so that desired attributes of colouration in dairy products, poultry, fish and crustaceans can be obtained. The text offers a description of carotenoid metabolism in humans and other mammals, as well as a survey of the transformations that have been revealed in other animals and their food chains.
