Search Results (336)

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by β-amyloid plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress—pathological features that pose significant challenges for the development of therapeutic interventions. Given these challenges, this review comprehensively evaluates the neuroprotective mechanisms of bioactive compounds derived from red algae, including polysaccharides and phycobiliproteins, which are considered a promising source of natural therapeutics for AD. Red algal constituents exhibit neuroprotective activities through multiple mechanisms. Sulfated polysaccharides (e.g., carrageenan, porphyran) suppress NF-κB-mediated neuroinflammation, modulate mitochondrial function, and enhance brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression. Phycobiliproteins (phycoerythrin, phycocyanin) and peptides derived from their degradation scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and activate antioxidant pathways (e.g., Nrf2/HO-1), thus mitigating oxidative damage. Carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin) improve cognitive function through the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase and pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β), while phenolic compounds (bromophenols, diphlorethol) provide protection by targeting multiple pathways involved in dopaminergic system modulation and Nrf2 pathway activation. Emerging extraction technologies—including microwave- and enzyme-assisted methods—have been shown to optimize the yield and maintain the bioactivity of these compounds. However, the precise identification of molecular targets and the standardization of extraction techniques remain critical research priorities. Overall, red algae-derived compounds hold significant potential for multi-mechanism AD interventions, providing novel insights for the development of therapeutic strategies with low toxicity. Full article

Lutein- and astaxanthin-fortified eggs can greatly improve both nutritional and economic values of eggs. High doses of lutein and astaxanthin are often supplemented in hen diets to rapidly accumulate lutein and astaxanthin in eggs. In this study, an additional 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg lutein and astaxanthin were added in hen diets to explore the effects of high-dose lutein and astaxanthin on egg quality, egg production, and carotenoid deposition in eggs, which remains unclear. The results showed that high-dose lutein and astaxanthin supplementation had no significant impact on laying rates and egg quality, except for markedly improving yolk color. Additionally, a quantitative profile of carotenoids in egg yolk was performed through liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. A total of 26 carotenoids were detected including 14 whose concentrations exceed 0.1 µg/g. Notably, the zeaxanthin content in yolk decreased with the increase in levels of lutein supplementation. Conversely, the content of lutein, zeaxanthin, 5,6 epoxy-lutein-caprate-palmitate in yolk decreased as astaxanthin supplementation increased. These findings suggest that high doses of lutein and astaxanthin supplementation may competitively inhibit the deposition of other carotenoids in egg yolk. Overall, this study suggests that during the production of functional eggs enriched with lutein and astaxanthin, it is important to consider the interaction effects among different carotenoids. Full article

This study investigated the cecal distribution of lipophilic pigments (carotenoids and chlorophylls) from Scenedesmus obliquus and their effects on the activity of the intestinal microbiota in rats. Oleoresins containing different concentrations of microalgal pigments (from 0 to 600 µg·kg⁻¹bw·d⁻¹), previously characterized by chromatographic and spectrometric analyses, were administered for four weeks. At the end of the intervention, cecal content samples were collected and analyzed for their pigment composition, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), and probiotic microbiota. Nine pigments were identified in the cecal samples, with all-trans-zeaxanthin and pheophytin being the most abundant in all groups. Furthermore, 15-cis-lutein, all-trans-β-cryptoxanthin, and 9-cis-β-carotene—found exclusively in microalgal oleoresin—were detected only in animals receiving doses above 300 µg·kg⁻¹bw.day⁻¹, indicating a link with the SCFA modulation. These supplementations significantly increased the levels of acetate (300 and 450 µg·kg⁻¹bw·d⁻¹ −13% and 14%), butyrate (300 µg kg⁻¹bw·d⁻¹ −19%), and propionate (600 µg·kg⁻¹bw·d⁻¹ −16%). Notably, 300 µg·kg⁻¹bw·d⁻¹ significantly increased Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus populations. Overall, the pigment supplementation positively influenced the gut microbiota composition and SCFA production in a dose-dependent manner, particularly at 300 µg·kg⁻¹bw·d⁻¹. These results support the potential application of microalgal pigments as functional food ingredients or supplements with gut health benefits. Full article

Skin aging is a complex process influenced by several factors, including UV exposure, environmental stressors, and lifestyle choices. The demand for effective, natural skincare products has driven research into plant-based oils rich in bioactive compounds. Rosehip oil has garnered attention for its high content of carotenoids, phenolics, and antioxidants, which are known for their anti-aging, photoprotective, and skin-rejuvenating properties. Despite the growing interest in rosehip oil, limited studies have investigated its efficacy on human skin using advanced imaging technologies. This study aims to fill this gap by evaluating the efficacy of cold-pressed Rosa canina seed oil on facial skin characteristics, specifically wrinkles, ultraviolet (UV) spot reduction, and erythema mitigation, using imaging technologies (the VISIA analysis system). Seed oil pressed from R. canina collected from the Băișoara area of Cluj County has been selected for this study due to its high carotenoid, phenolic, and antioxidant contents. The oil has also been analyzed for the content of individual carotenoids (i.e., lutein, lycopene, β Carotene, and zeaxanthin) using HPLC-DAD (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography—Diode Array Detector), along with lutein and zeaxanthin esters and diesters. After the preliminary screening of multiple Rosa species for carotenoid, phenolic, and antioxidant contents, the R. canina sample with the highest therapeutic potential was selected. A cohort of 27 volunteers (aged 30–65) underwent a five-week treatment protocol, wherein three drops of the selected rosehip oil were topically applied to the face daily. The VISIA imaging was conducted before and after the treatment to evaluate changes in skin parameters, including the wrinkle depth, UV-induced spots, porphyrins, and texture. Regarding the bioactivities, rosehip oil showed a significant total carotenoids content (28.398 μg/mL), with the highest levels in the case of the β-carotene (4.49 μg/mL), lutein (4.33 μg/mL), and zexanthin (10.88 μg/mL) contents. Results indicated a significant reduction in mean wrinkle scores across several age groups, with notable improvements in individuals with deeper baseline wrinkles. UV spots also showed visible declines, suggesting ideal photoprotective and anti-pigmentary effects attributable to the oil’s high vitamin A and carotenoid content. Porphyrin levels, often correlated with bacterial activity, decreased in most subjects, hinting at an additional antimicrobial or microbiome-modulatory property. However, skin responses varied, possibly due to individual differences in skin sensitivity, environmental factors, or compliance with sun protection. Overall, the topical application of R. canina oil appeared to improve the facial skin quality, reduce the appearance of age-related markers, and support skin health. These findings reinforce the potential use of rosehip oil in anti-aging skincare formulations. Further long-term, large-scale studies are warranted to refine dosing regimens, investigate mechanisms of action, and explore synergistic effects with other bioactive compounds. Full article

The pigmentation and coloration of P. vannamei are primarily determined by the type and concentration of dietary carotenoids, with carotenoid-rich macroalgae serving as effective dietary supplements to enhance pigment accumulation and improve commercial quality. Five experimental diets were formulated with 3% brown algae (Saccharina japonica, SJ group; Sargassum fusiforme, SF group), red algae (Neoporphyra haitanensis, NH group), or 0.1% purified carotenoids (zeaxanthin, ZT group; fucoxanthin, FX group). The results showed that both macroalgae and carotenoid supplementation significantly enhanced weight gain rate (WGR) and specific growth rate (SGR) compared to the control group, with the zeaxanthin and fucoxanthin groups exhibiting the greatest improvements (1.6-fold and 1.3-fold, respectively). The N. haitanensis-supplemented diet, which had the highest carotenoid content, resulted in the most pronounced carotenoid accumulation (2.58-fold increase). Carotenoids were mainly deposited in the exoskeleton, followed by the hepatopancreas, with minimal accumulation in muscle tissue. α-Carotene and β-carotene contributed most to exoskeleton deposition, while lutein and zeaxanthin had weaker effects, and fucoxanthin showed no significant influence. Tissue-specific distribution patterns were observed: α-carotene and β-carotene were localized in the exoskeleton; fucoxanthin and zeaxanthin were found only in the exoskeleton and hepatopancreas, and astaxanthin was present in all three tissues. Furthermore, astaxanthin diesters (C20:5 and C22:6) were primarily detected in the exoskeleton and hepatopancreas, while monoesters (C16:0 and C18:0) were specific to muscle. These findings suggest that targeted supplementation of algal-derived carotenoids can enhance both growth and pigmentation in P. vannamei, providing a theoretical basis for the development of functional feeds to improve shrimp commercial quality. Full article

Skin photoaging, driven primarily by ultraviolet radiation, remains a critical dermatological concern. Carotenoids, a class of natural pigments with potent antioxidant properties, have emerged as promising agents for preventing and mitigating photoaging. This review comprehensively integrates current understanding regarding the triggers of skin photoaging, oxidative stress and their associated signal pathways, the photoprotective roles and mechanisms of carotenoids, as well as their bioavailability. Common C₄₀ carotenoids, such as β-carotene, lycopene, astaxanthin, lutein, and zeaxanthin demonstrate remarkable antioxidant activity, primarily attributed to their conjugated double bond structures. Many studies have demonstrated that both oral and topical administration of these C₄₀ carotenoids can effectively alleviate skin photoaging. Specifically, they play a crucial role in promoting the formation of a new skin barrier and enhancing the production of collagen and elastin, key structural proteins essential for maintaining skin integrity and elasticity. Mechanistically, these carotenoids combat photoaging by effectively scavenging reactive oxygen species and modulating oxidative stress responsive signal pathways, including MAPK, Nrf2, and NF-κB. Notably, we also anticipate the anti-photoaging potential of novel carotenoids, with a particular emphasis on bacterioruberin, a C₅₀ carotenoid derived from halophilic archaea. Bacterioruberin exhibits a superior radical scavenging capacity, outperforming the conventional C₄₀ carotenoids. Furthermore, when considering the application of carotenoids, aspects such as safe dosage, bioavailability, and possible long term usage issues, including allergies and pigmentation disorders, must be taken into account. This review underscores the anti-photoaging mechanism of carotenoids, providing strategies and theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of photoaging. Full article

In this study, we evaluated the effects of two wheat varieties with different carotenoid concentrations (Pexeso and Tercie) and two fat sources with contrasting fatty acid profiles (rapeseed oil and lard) on hen performance, egg quality, and egg yolk retention of carotenoids. The feed conversion ratio of hens that received Tercie wheat and lard in their diet were greater than those of hens that received other diets (p = 0.002). Greater (p ˂ 0.001) eggshell thickness and strength occurred when hens were fed a Pexeso wheat diet. Moreover, Pexeso wheat and lard increased lutein (p ˂ 0.001 and p = 0.001) and zeaxanthin (p ˂ 0.001 and p = 0.001) contents in egg yolks. The highest lutein retention (p = 0.010) occurred in the groups that received Pexeso wheat (46.4 and 47.4%), and the highest zeaxanthin retention (p = 0.011) occurred with a Pexeso wheat and lard diet (59.5%). The lowest lutein and zeaxanthin retention occurred in hens fed a Tercie wheat and rapeseed oil diet (23.6% for lutein retention and 24.1% for zeaxanthin retention). The Pexeso wheat and rapeseed oil diet increased the concentrations of α- and γ-tocopherol (p ˂ 0.001 and p ˂ 0.001) in egg yolks, which influenced the oxidative stability of the eggs. Compared with other diets, a Tercie wheat and rapeseed oil diet led to the lowest oxidative stability in fresh eggs (p = 0.041). In conclusion, Pexeso wheat had greater retention of biologically active substances and higher mineral contents than Tercie wheat, which was reflected in the performance of hens and the quality of eggs. The combination of Pexeso wheat with rapeseed oil, which is rich in tocopherols and polyunsaturated fatty acids and has a favorable n-6/n-3 ratio, increased the tocopherol content and the oxidative stability of egg yolk fats. Full article

Background/Objectives: To analyze the macular pigment optical density (MPOD) values in a child population and to evaluate the relation between MPOD and adherence to the Mediterranean diet using a validated questionnaire specially created for children. Eighty-eight children were included in this cross-sectional study from two primary education schools of Seville (Spain). Methods: MPOD values were measured using Macular Pigment Screener II ^®. Lutein and Zeaxanthin intake was evaluated by KIDMED questionnaire, which classifies children according to adherence to the Mediterranean diet. A whole ocular exam with slit-lamp biomicroscopy was conducted by a specialized optometrist. Results: The mean age ranged between 6 and 8 years. The mean MPOD value was 0.46 ± 0.18. The mean score of the KIDMED questionnaire was 7.19 ± 1.85. No statistically significant differences were found as a function of gender or among Mediterranean diet adherence groups. No significant differences in MPOD values between answers were found in any KIDMED questions. No correlations were found for MPOD with several variables, such as Mediterranean diet adherence and KIDMED score. Conclusions: MPOD levels in children could not be correlated with Mediterranean Diet adherence and, thus, good dietary habits. Genetic characteristics, mother’s diet habits, oxidative stress, and body fat composition in children could be the main factors influencing MPOD levels. Full article

Microalgae are valuable sources of bioactive compounds. However, their production requires strategies to enhance metabolic responses. This study explores how Chlorella vulgaris responds to different salinity conditions using a two-stage cultivation strategy, assessing the change in amino acid and carotenoid content on microalgae over time. First, microalgae were cultivated under optimal conditions, followed by exposure to different salinity levels (150 mM and 300 mM NaCl). Growth kinetics, nutrient uptake, and biochemical composition were analysed, revealing distinct salinity-induced responses. Similar specific growth rates were achieved across all assays, while nitrate removal improved under salinity and phosphate uptake decreased. Amino acid profiling showed significant declines in the content of several compounds and carotenoid content also presented declining trends, although moderate salinity mitigated degradation in key pigments. Principal component analysis identified high correlations between amino acids and carotenoids contents, forming groups of compounds with similar variations. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the salinity-induced response of C. vulgaris, offering insights for biotechnology applications. By optimising cultivation conditions, salinity could enhance bioactive compound retention, supporting the development of sustainable microalgae-based products. Full article

Background: Carotenoids are bioactive tetraterpenoid C40 pigments that are actively synthesized by plants, bacteria, and fungi. Compounds such as α-carotene, β-carotene, lycopene, lutein, astaxanthin, β-cryptoxanthin, fucoxanthin, and zeaxanthin have attracted increasing attention for their antiaging properties. They exhibit antioxidant, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to the prevention and treatment of age-related diseases. Objectives: The aim of this study was to comprehensively analyze the pharmacological potential and biological mechanisms of carotenoids associated with age-related disorders and to evaluate their application in nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and cosmeceuticals. Methods: A systematic review of studies published over the past two decades was conducted using the databases PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The selection criteria included clinical, in silico, in vivo, and in vitro studies investigating the pharmacological and therapeutic effects of carotenoids. Results: Carotenoids demonstrate a variety of health benefits, including the prevention of age-related macular degeneration, cancer, cognitive decline, metabolic disorders, and skin aging. Their role in nutraceuticals is well supported by their ability to modulate oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways. In pharmaceuticals, carotenoids show promising results in formulations targeting neurodegenerative diseases and metabolic disorders. In cosmeceuticals, they improve skin health by protecting it against UV radiation and oxidative damage. However, bioavailability, optimal dosages, toxicity, and interactions with other bioactive compounds remain critical factors to maximize therapeutic efficacy and still require careful evaluation by scientists. Conclusions: Carotenoids are promising bioactive compounds for antiaging interventions with potential applications in a variety of fields. Further research is needed to optimize their formulas, improve bioavailability, and confirm their long-term safety and effectiveness, especially in the aging population. Full article

In this study, carotenoids from four different paprika genotypes were analyzed at various maturation stages, as well as in Ajvar, a traditional Balkan product made from fully matured roasted paprika fruits. For this purpose, the HPTLC analytical method was used, and five dominant carotenoids were analyzed: β-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, capsanthin, and β-cryptoxanthin. Additionally, total carotenoids were analyzed spectrophotometrically, antioxidant capacity was determined, and their bioavailability was assayed using in vitro digestion. Finally, Raman spectroscopy, a non-destructive analytical method, was used to estimate the total carotenoid content. The results showed that the amount of all investigated carotenoids is the highest in the final maturity stage (0.38 g/100 g DM to 1.55 g/100 g DM). On the other hand, the lowest concentration of all investigated carotenoids was detected at the first stage of maturation, ranging from 0.01 g/100 g DM to 0.25 g/100 g DM. However, the analysis of carotenoid content in Ajvar showed a tendency for a decrease in concentration compared to their quantity in fresh fruits, although this was also dependent on the genotype (1.9–66.98% according to HPTLC results and 16.14–82.36% according to spectrophotometry). Antioxidant tests indicated an increase in antioxidant capacity with the ripening of paprika fruits, confirming the role of carotenoids as compounds capable of neutralizing harmful oxygen species (DPPH ranged from 0.21 to 1.50 µmol/g TEAC, CUPRAC ranged from 0.185 to 0.297 mg AsA/g DM, FRP ranged from 9.33 to 25.66 mg AsA/g DM). Quantification of total carotenoids by Raman spectroscopy showed that results were highly correlated with those obtained by HPTLC and the spectrophotometric method, highlighting the potential of Raman spectroscopy for carotenoid quantification. Based on the obtained results, it can be concluded that the traditional product Ajvar represents an important source of carotenoids, which are preserved after heat treatment with high biological activity relative to the final ripening stage of the paprika. Furthermore, the bioavailability of carotenoids from Ajvar is significantly higher compared to the results from fresh paprika analysis. Full article

The nutritional quality and biochemical properties of ‘Little Gem’ (Lactuca sativa L.) lettuce grown hydroponically can be enhanced by Zn and white light. This study investigated the combined effects of wide-spectrum white LED lighting parameters and Zn doses on the Zn accumulation, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, sugars, and protein content of lettuce. Broad-spectrum 3500 K light combined with a 5 ppm Zn solution led to a 7% increase in Zn accumulation in lettuce, compared to 3000 K and 4000 K lighting conditions. The 5 ppm Zn dose combined with 3000 K and 4000 K lighting affected DPPH and ABTS scavenging activity and Fe-reducing antioxidant power. Additionally, this combination influenced chlorophyll b, maltose, superoxide dismutase, and ascorbate peroxidase levels. Furthermore, the 1 and 5 ppm Zn doses at 4000 K impacted carotenoids such as neoxanthin, lutein, zeaxanthin, and total protein content. In lettuce exposed to a 1 ppm Zn dose combined with 3000 K and 3500 K lighting, impact was found on total phenolic compounds, sucrose, chlorophyll a, raffinose, fructose, glucose, carotene, violaxanthin, and xanthophylls. The study suggests that lighting and Zn concentrations significantly impact lettuce growth, biochemical properties, and nutritional quality, particularly at the baby leaf stage. Full article

The biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest includes little-known cocoa species, which are essential resources for local communities. This study evaluated the bioactive compounds and antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of seeds and mucilage of four non-traditional cocoa species (Theobroma subincanum, T. speciosum, T. bicolor and Herrania nitida). Physico-chemical properties, minerals, vitamin C, organic acids, phenolics, and carotenoids were analysed by spectrophotometric and chromatographic techniques. The antioxidant activity was measured by ABTS and DPPH, along with the antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Streptococcus mutans, as well as Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis. T. subincanum seeds scored high in titratable acidity, magnesium, sodium, syringic acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, rutin, and quercetin. In contrast, the mucilage scored high in calcium, m-coumaric acid, ferulic acid, kaempferol, quercetin glycoside, and antimicrobial activity against Streptococcus mutans. T. speciosum mucilage excelled in malic acid, tartaric acid, naringenin, and antioxidant capacity. T. bicolor seeds excelled in lutein and antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans, and mucilage in iron, potassium, vitamin C, citric acid, gallic acid and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, zeaxanthin, β-carotene, and antioxidant capacity by ABTS. The mucilage of H. nitida has a high soluble solids content. These results highlight the potential of these species as sustainable sources of functional compounds and nutraceuticals. Full article

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a multifactorial disorder influenced by genetic, lifestyle, nutritional, and systemic health factors that contribute to increased oxidative stress and chronic inflammation in the retina. This article reviews the recent literature on modifiable lifestyle risk factors for the development and progression of AMD. Smoking (current and former), physical inactivity, prolonged sunlight exposure, as well as conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and obesity have all been associated with an increased risk of early AMD and its progression. The Age-Related Eye Disease Studies (AREDS and AREDS2) have shown that a specific combination of vitamins E and C, zinc, copper, lutein, and zeaxanthin can significantly reduce the risk of AMD progressing from dry to wet form. Additionally, adherence to a Mediterranean diet, rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, and nuts, has been linked to a lower risk of both early and late AMD. Emerging evidence suggests that these benefits may be influenced by the gut microbiota, as well as genetic and epigenetic factors. Further research into the interactions between these risk factors could pave the way for targeted therapies aimed at preventing or slowing AMD progression. Full article

Background/Objectives: Macular pigment optical density (MPOD) is an important clinical biomarker for ocular conditions like macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease, and digital eye strain. Additionally, its measurements can be essential in health assessment for visual function, systemic diseases, and brain health. We aimed to assess the repeatability, agreement, and effects of the learning curve of the new portable handheld heterochromatic flicker photometer, Zx Pro, in measuring MPOD in a wide age range of ocular-healthy adults, compared to the MPOD measurements obtained using the clinically available QuantifEye device. Methods: Seventy-six participants performed one practice attempt and two study-related MPOD measurements with the Zx Pro and the QuantifEye. Results: The Pearson correlation between the study-related MPOD measurements for Zx Pro and QuantifEye devices was 90% and 85%, respectively. Bland and Altman plots show excellent agreement between the device’s MPOD data, with 95% limits of an agreement being −0.10 to +0.11 du. The mean difference between the practice attempt and the study-related measurements was not statistically significant for Zx Pro but was significant for QuantifEye (Repeated measures ANOVA p = 0.325 and p = 0.015, respectively). Conclusions: The Zx Pro provides excellent repeatable MPOD measurements, has an insignificant learning curve, and is in good agreement with the predicate device. Full article