The Genetics of Vitamin C Loss in Vertebrates
Author Information
Author(s): Drouin Guy, Godin Jean-Rémi, Pagé Benoît
Primary Institution: Université d'Ottawa
Hypothesis
What are the genetic bases behind the repeated losses in the ability to synthesize vitamin C in various vertebrate species?
Conclusion
The inability to synthesize vitamin C in certain vertebrate species is due to mutations in the GLO gene, and this loss appears to be a neutral trait not influenced by diet.
Supporting Evidence
- The GLO gene mutations leading to vitamin C loss are irreversible in some species.
- Some bat species have shown reactivation of the GLO gene during evolution.
- Loss of the ability to synthesize vitamin C is not related to the diet of the species.
Takeaway
Some animals can't make their own vitamin C anymore because of changes in their genes, but that's okay for them since they eat enough vitamin C in their food.
Methodology
The study reviews genetic data and phylogenetic relationships among vertebrate species regarding their ability to synthesize vitamin C.
Limitations
The study primarily focuses on genetic aspects and may not cover all ecological or environmental factors influencing vitamin C synthesis.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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