Why Scurvy Shouldn't Exist

The video discusses scurvy, a disease caused by vitamin C deficiency, highlighting its symptoms and treatment. It explains the role of vitamin C in collagen synthesis and how most animals can produce it naturally, unlike humans. The loss of this ability in primates is attributed to a genetic mutation affecting the gulo enzyme. Despite this, early primates thrived due to vitamin C-rich diets. The video explores hypotheses on why the gulo gene was not eliminated, suggesting a lack of selective pressure due to dietary habits.

What is the primary cause of scurvy?

• Excessive vitamin A

• Lack of protein

• Deficiency in vitamin C

• Lack of vitamin D

Why can't humans naturally produce vitamin C?

• They have an excess of vitamin C in their diet

• They lack the enzyme gulo

• They produce too much collagen

• They have a different metabolic pathway

Which animals are part of the 'no-gulo' club?

• Cows and sheep

• Guinea pigs and some primates

• Dogs and cats

• Lions and tigers

What is a pseudogene?

• A gene that is fully functional

• A gene that has mutated and lost its original function

• A gene that produces excessive proteins

• A gene that is responsible for vitamin D synthesis

Why did the non-functional gulo gene persist in humans?

• Humans evolved to need less vitamin C

• There was no selective pressure due to vitamin C-rich diets

• The gene was essential for other functions

• Humans developed a new enzyme