Carotenogenic response in photosynthetic organisms: a colorful story

摘要: Carotenoids are a diverse group of terpenoid pigments ubiquitous in and essential for functioning phototrophs. Most the researchers field focused on primary carotenoids serving light harvesting, photoprotection, supporting structural integrity photosynthetic apparatus (PSA) within thylakoid membranes. A distinct functionally structurally uncoupled from PSA accumulating outside thylakoids is called secondary carotenoids. Induction biosynthesis massive accumulation latter termed as carotenogenesis carotenogenic response (CR), respectively, major though insufficiently studied stress discovered many phototrophic organisms ranging single-celled algae to terrestrial higher plants. The CR protects cell by means optical shielding structures vulnerable photodamage, consumption potentially harmful dioxygen, augmenting sink capacity photoassimilates, exerting an antioxidant effect. exhibit remarkable photostability situ. Therefore, CR-based photoprotective mechanism, unlike, e.g., enzyme-based protection chloroplast, does not require continuous investment energy metabolites making it highly suitable long-term acclimation Capability determines strategy different stresses such excessive irradiance, drought, extreme temperatures, salinities. Build-up might be accompanied gradual disengagement 'classical' active (energy-dependent) mechanisms non-photochemical quenching. In addition that, has great ecological significance. Illustrious examples this extremely stress-tolerant 'snow' conifer species developing red coloration during winter. also considerable practical implications since exert plethora beneficial effects human animal health. microalgae richest biotechnological sources natural value-added astaxanthin β-carotene. present review, we summarize current functional, mechanistic, insights into broad range suggesting that obviously more widespread important than currently thought be.