Astaxanthin

OriginDerived from the microalgae Haematococcus pluvialis or synthesized from chemical precursors in the carotenoid family. Produced through chemical synthesis or extraction from algae, followed by purification and stabilization processes.

Astaxanthin is a natural and synthetic xanthophyll and nonprovitamin A carotenoid, with potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antineoplastic activities. Upon administration, astaxanthin may act as an antioxidant and reduce oxidative stress, thereby preventing protein and lipid oxidation and DNA damage. By decreasing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free radicals, it may also prevent ROS-induced activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB) transcription factor and the production of inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1beta (IL-1b), IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a). In addition, astaxanthin may inhibit cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and nitric oxide (NO) activities, thereby reducing inflammation. Oxidative stress and inflammation play key roles in the pathogenesis of many diseases, including cardiovascular, neurological, autoimmune and neoplastic diseases.

The paper trail

Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.