What protein in the eyes uses Vitamin A derived from beta-carotene for low-light vision?
Answer
Rhodopsin
The vision support provided by pumpkin is directly linked to its high concentration of beta-carotene, which the body converts into Vitamin A. Vitamin A is an indispensable component for good vision, specifically because it is necessary for the synthesis of rhodopsin. Rhodopsin is a light-absorbing protein found in the rod cells of the retina. When light strikes rhodopsin, it triggers a chemical reaction that initiates the nerve impulse sent to the brain, allowing vision, especially in dim or low-light conditions. Therefore, a diet rich in Vitamin A precursors like that found in pumpkin directly supports the functional integrity of rhodopsin, which is critical for maintaining eyesight.
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