Book ID: 94978
Preedy, Victor R. and Ronald R. Watson (eds.)
Lycopene. Nutritional, Medicinal and Therapeutic Properties. 2008. illus. XIX, 451 p. gr8vo. Hardcover.
Lycopene is a bright red carotenoid pigment andphytochemical found in tomatoes and other red fruits. Its name is derived from the tomato's species classification, Solanum lycopersicum. In plants, algae, and other photosynthetic organisms, lycopene is an important intermediate in the biosynthesis of many carotenoids, including beta carotene, which are responsible forpigmentation, photosynthesis, and photo-protection.Lycopene is not an essential nutrient for humans, but it is commonly found in the diet, mainly from dishes prepared with tomato sauce.