| Astaxanthin - Antioxidant Potential |
 · The enhanced activity of astaxanthin may stem from its molecular structure. Astaxanthin belongs to the xanthophyll group of carotenoids, or the oxygenated carotenoids. · The hydroxyl and keto functional groups present in the ending ionone ring of astaxanthin may be responsible for its uniquely powerful antioxidant activity and for its ability to span the membrane bilayers as a direct result of its more polar configuration relative to other carotenoids, and the charge stabilization that it is possible to attain by keto-hydroxy resonance in the terminal ionone rings. · Carotenoids with polar end groups like astaxanthin span the lipid membrane bilayer with their end groups located near the hydrophobic-hydrophilic interface, where free-radical attack occurs. · The remarkable antioxidant properties of astaxanthin are believed to be the key factor for its potential protective activity of the immune system, protection against UV photo-oxidation, inflammation, and cancer and other age-related diseases. Astaxanthin, a superb natural antioxidant Information provided in this article is for informational purposes only, and is not meant to substitute for the advice of your own physician or other medical professional. The statements herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Astaxanthin from Algatech is not intended to diagnose, cure, treat, or prevent any disease. |