beta-carotene 15,15'-dioxygenase activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Catalysis of the reaction: all-trans-beta-carotene + O2 = 2 all-trans-retinal. [RHEA:32887]

Beta-carotene 15,15'-dioxygenase activity is an enzymatic function that catalyzes the oxidative cleavage of beta-carotene, a provitamin A carotenoid, at the 15,15' double bond. This reaction produces two molecules of retinal, the immediate precursor of vitamin A. The enzyme responsible for this activity, known as beta-carotene 15,15'-dioxygenase, is a member of the dioxygenase family and requires molecular oxygen (O2) as a substrate. The reaction mechanism involves the formation of a transient intermediate, a hydroperoxide, which is then cleaved to yield retinal. This reaction is crucial for the production of vitamin A, which plays essential roles in vision, cell growth and differentiation, immune function, and reproduction. Beta-carotene 15,15'-dioxygenase is found in various tissues, including the small intestine, liver, and adipose tissue, where it plays a key role in converting dietary beta-carotene into vitamin A. This enzyme activity is essential for maintaining adequate vitamin A levels in the body and ensuring proper functioning of various physiological processes.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (1)