In an advance that could change how millions of patients take their medications, researchers have identified the genetic mechanism behind grapefruit’s notorious interaction with prescription drugs. The discovery opens the door to developing new varieties of grapefruit that won’t interfere with medications, potentially allowing patients to safely enjoy the fruit again.
For decades, healthcare providers have advised patients to avoid grapefruit and its lesser-known cousin, pummelo, when taking certain medications. These citrus fruits contain compounds called furanocoumarins that can affect the blood levels of more than 100 prescription drugs, forcing many patients to eliminate these nutritious fruits from their diets entirely.
The new research, published in the Jan. 8, 2025 issue of New Phytologist, reveals that the production of these problematic compounds depends on a single gene within a complex genetic cluster. This finding provides a clear target for scientists working to develop furanocoumarin-free varieties.
“This research helps us to understand why fruit of certain citrus species produce furanocoumarins and demonstrates how breeders and researchers could develop furanocoumarin-free citrus varieties,” said Yoram Eyal of the Volcani Center in Israel, who co-led the study.
The research team’s investigation focused on a family of enzymes known as 2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases. Their findings show that the presence or absence of furanocoumarins in citrus fruit hinges on the integrity of a specific gene within this enzyme family’s genetic blueprint.
This discovery could have far-reaching implications for both agriculture and medicine. Developing grapefruit varieties that lack furanocoumarins would eliminate a significant dietary restriction for patients taking affected medications, including common treatments for high blood pressure, high cholesterol and various psychiatric conditions.
The findings also shed light on the broader evolution of citrus species and their chemical defenses, offering insights that could prove valuable for future crop development and food safety research.
As agriculture scientists begin applying these findings, patients currently taking medications that interact with grapefruit should continue following their healthcare providers’ dietary restrictions. However, the prospect of medication-safe grapefruit varieties may not be far off, thanks to this genetic breakthrough.
Source: ScienceBlog
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