“Super tomatoes” that are genetically modified to produce more vitamin D can help reduce vitamin deficiencies around the world.
British researchers used gene editing technology known as “CRISPR” to modify the gene responsible for converting vitamin D3 to cholesterol.
They say that modifying this gene allows tomatoes to retain more provitamins, which can be converted to vitamin D by exposure to ultraviolet light or sunlight.
Researchers at the John Innes Center in Norwich say the vitamin D that can be obtained by eating one of these genetically modified tomatoes is equivalent to two eggs or 28 grams of tuna.
Therefore, it can help meet the daily vitamin needs for children and adults, which reduces the risk of diseases such as cancer, Parkinson’s disease and dementia.
“These tomatoes could represent a new food source, with potential public health implications,” the researchers said in a news release.
Vitamin D helps regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body, which are needed to maintain healthy bones, teeth, and muscles.
The researchers said the technology could be adapted for use on a variety of crops, including potatoes, bell and hot peppers.
Professor Jay Bobby, professor of ecology at the University of Southampton, who was also not involved in the study, said the breakthrough was particularly important for people eating more plant-based diets, as most in vitamin D is found in meat and dairy.
The study was published in Nature Plants.
Source: Daily Mail
Source: Arabic RT
