FOOD SCIENCE ›› 2006, Vol. 27 ›› Issue (1): 258-262.

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Review on Antioxidant Effects of Astaxanthin and Its Application in Nutriology and Pharmacology

 ZHANG  Xiao-Li, LIU  Jian-Guo   

  1. 1.Research and Development Center of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences; 2.Graduate University of Chinese Academy of Sciences.
  • Online:2006-01-15 Published:2011-09-05

Abstract: Astaxanthin, a kind of keto-carotenoids has strong anti-oxidative capability and can scavenge ROS effectively in human body. In this paper, the functions of astaxanthin as an antioxidant in health and nutrition, covering anti-cancer, anti- inflammatory, UV-light protection, improving immune response and fighting against aging were reviewed in detail. Then, the bioactivity and the safety of natural and synthetic astaxanthin were compared with a conclusion that astaxanthin from Haematococcus pluvialis has the exclusive application value in nutrition and health food. The prospect of natural astaxanthin in pharmaceuticals and nutrition industries were also discussed at finals.

Key words: astaxanthin, Haematococcus pluvialis, antioxidant, reactive oxygen species(ROS)