BCO1 (Beta-Carotene Oxygenase 1) is an enzyme that plays a key role in converting beta-carotene into retinal, an active form of vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for vision, immune health, and cell communication. The activity of BCO1 influences how effectively dietary beta-carotene is transformed into vitamin A, affecting overall vitamin A levels and related health outcomes. Variations in the BCO1 gene can impact an individual’s ability to process beta-carotene and their risk of vitamin A deficiency.