zeaxanthin
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: A yellow carotenoid pigment, isomeric with lutein and typically found alongside it, that is the primary pigment responsible for the yellow color in yellow Indian corn and is also present in various green leafy vegetables, egg yolks, and the human eye.
Usage
This word is a scientific term used primarily in the fields of biochemistry, nutrition, and ophthalmology. It refers to a specific organic compound. * Zeaxanthin is one of the two major carotenoids that accumulate in the macula of the human eye. * The study focused on the dietary sources of zeaxanthin and lutein. * The yellow hue of the corn is due to the presence of zeaxanthin.
Advanced Usage
- In Nutritional Science: Often discussed in the context of "macular pigment optical density" (MPOD) and its role in protecting the retina from blue light.
- Increased intake of zeaxanthin is associated with a reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration.
- In Chemistry: Described by its molecular structure and its relationship to other carotenoids.
- Zeaxanthin, with its specific hydroxyl groups, is classified as a xanthophyll.
Variants and Related Words
- Isomer: A related scientific concept; lutein is an isomer of zeaxanthin, meaning they have the same atoms but a different spatial arrangement.
- Carotenoid: The broader class of pigments to which zeaxanthin belongs.
- Xanthophyll: The subclass of oxygen-containing carotenoids that includes zeaxanthin and lutein.
- Lutein: The closely related and commonly co-occurring isomer of zeaxanthin.
Synonyms
- E161h: Its designated code as a food additive.
- There are no common, non-scientific synonyms for this specific chemical compound.
Related Phrases
- Macular pigment: The protective layer in the eye's macula, composed primarily of zeaxanthin and lutein.
- Dietary carotenoid: A phrase used to describe zeaxanthin in the context of nutrition and food sources.
Noun
- yellow carotenoid (isomeric with lutein and occurs widely with it) that is the main pigment in yellow Indian corn