The folate hypothesis
A)contradicts the importance of the relationship between UV radiation and skin cancer.
B)purports to explain why dark skin is advantageous in high UV environments.
C)CANNOT explain why dark skin is advantageous in high UV environments.
D)explains why dark-skinned individuals often have rickets.
E)explains why leaves fall in autumn.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The folate hypothesis suggests that dark skin evolved to protect against the breakdown of folate in the body due to exposure to high levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is more intense in areas closer to the equator. Folate is crucial for DNA synthesis and repair, and its depletion can lead to serious health issues. Therefore, having darker skin in high UV environments helps in preserving folate levels.

The Folate Hypothesis