Astaxanthin, a ketocarotenoid known for its antioxidant properties and wide range of health benefits, remains one of the most studied and appreciated natural substances in the fields of nutraceuticals and pharmacology.
Astaxanthin as a Powerful Antioxidant
What makes astaxanthin stand out from other antioxidants is its ability to integrate into the lipid bilayer of cell membranes. This unique position allows it to:
- Capture free radicals within the membrane and eliminate them both on its surface and inside.
- Stimulate the production of key antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase 1 , catalase and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) .
- Activate the transcription factor Nrf2 , which increases the expression of these enzymes and strengthens the defense against oxidative stress.
In terms of efficacy, astaxanthin is:
- 65 times more effective than vitamin C ,
- 54 times more potent than beta-carotene , and
- 100 times more powerful than tocopherol (vitamin E) in neutralizing free radicals.
Health Benefits of Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin offers a wide variety of health benefits, supported by preclinical and clinical studies:
1. Immune System Support
- It stimulates lymphocyte proliferation, enhances NK cell cytotoxicity, and increases T and B cell counts.
- It acts as an immunoglobulin stimulant (IgM and IgG), strengthening the immune response.
2. Anti-inflammatory effects
- Reduces oxidative stress and suppresses the production of proinflammatory cytokines by inhibiting the NFκB or JAK/STAT pathways.
- This anti-inflammatory effect positions astaxanthin as a promising option in the treatment of inflammatory diseases.
3. Skin Health
- Protects skin from UV radiation damage, improves its elasticity and reduces wrinkles and blemishes.
- Its accumulation in tissues after oral ingestion acts as a natural barrier against aging and skin diseases.
4. Eye Health
- By crossing the blood-retinal barrier, it protects the eyes against macular degeneration and other conditions related to oxidative stress and inflammation.
5. Neuroprotection
- Thanks to its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, it has shown potential in studies for treating neurological disorders such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, depression, and brain or spinal cord injuries.
6. Infertility Treatment
- In men, it reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS) in sperm, improving sperm quality.
- In women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), it has been associated with improved pregnancy rates in preliminary studies. However, further research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
Future Perspectives and Innovations
The therapeutic potential of astaxanthin continues to attract the attention of the scientific community, especially in areas such as:
- Cardiovascular diseases.
- Lung disorders.
- Neurodegenerative diseases.
However, challenges remain, such as:
- Its hydrophobicity , which limits its bioavailability.
- Its instability at high temperatures and low pH.
Nanoencapsulation: The Promising Solution
Nanoencapsulation has emerged as a key technique for improving astaxanthin absorption. This method encapsulates the compound in nanoparticles, increasing its solubility and bioavailability.
Other innovations include the use of:
- Mechanical stress.
- Nanoparticle technology.
- Microtools to improve efficient extraction of Haematococcus lacustris .
Astaxanthin stands out as an extraordinary natural compound, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that support its title as the "King of Carotenoids." Although techniques to overcome its bioavailability limitations are still being researched, its positive impact on human health positions it as an essential tool for well-being and the treatment of various conditions.
Are you ready to experience the benefits of astaxanthin? At Sevens , we offer products formulated to maximize its properties and help you improve your overall health.