astaxanthine and Cardiovascular-Diseases

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have biological roles in controlling oxidative stress. Astaxanthin (AST) may regulate circulating miRNAs in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs); therefore, our study aimed to evaluate the effect of AST on miRNA involved in CVDs. A systematic literature search from inception to August 2022 resulted in 80 preliminary studies; 15 articles were included.

Topics: Cardiovascular Diseases; Dietary Supplements; Humans; MicroRNAs; Xanthophylls

Cardiovascular diseases are the most common cause of mortality worldwide. Oxidative stress and inflammation are pathophysiological processes involved in the development of cardiovascular diseases; thus, anti‑inflammatory and antioxidant agents that modulate redox balance have become research targets so as to evaluate their molecular mechanisms of action and therapeutic properties. Astaxanthin, a carotenoid of the xanthophyll group, has potent antioxidant properties due to its molecular structure and its arrangement in the plasma membrane, factors that favor the neutralization of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. This carotenoid also has prominent anti‑inflammatory activity, possibly interrelated with its antioxidant effect, and is also involved in the modulation of lipid and glucose metabolism. Considering the potential beneficial effects of astaxanthin on cardiovascular health evidenced by preclinical and clinical studies, the aim of the present review was to describe the molecular and cellular mechanisms associated with the antioxidant and anti‑inflammatory properties of this carotenoid in cardiovascular diseases, particularly atherosclerosis. The beneficial properties and safety profile of astaxanthin indicate that this compound may be used for preventing progression or as an adjuvant in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

Topics: Antioxidants; Cardiovascular Diseases; Glucose; Humans; Lipid Metabolism; Xanthophylls

Astaxanthin is a natural C40 carotenoid with numerous reported biological functions, most of them associated with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, standing out from other antioxidants as it has shown the highest oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), 100-500 times higher than ⍺-tocopherol and a 10 times higher free radical inhibitory activity than related antioxidants (α-tocopherol, α-carotene, β -carotene, lutein and lycopene). In vitro and in vivo studies have associated astaxanthin's unique molecular features with several health benefits, including neuroprotective, cardioprotective and antitumoral properties, suggesting its therapeutic potential for the prevention or co-treatment of dementia, Alzheimer, Parkinson, cardiovascular diseases and cancer. Benefits on skin and eye health promotion have also been reported, highlighting its potential for the prevention of skin photo-aging and the treatment of eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts and uveitis. In this review, we summarize and discuss the currently available evidence on astaxanthin benefits, with a particular focus on human clinical trials, including a brief description of the potential mechanisms of action responsible for its biological activities.

Topics: Animals; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Antioxidants; Cardiovascular Diseases; Clinical Trials as Topic; Drug Development; Drug Discovery; Humans; Neoplasms; Neurodegenerative Diseases; Xanthophylls

Microalgae are photosynthetic microorganisms that produce numerous bioactive molecules that can be used as food supplement to prevent chronic disease installation. Indeed, they produce phycobiliproteins, polysaccharides, lipids, carotenoids and sterolic compounds. The use of microalgae in human nutrition provide a mixture of these molecules with synergistic effect. The aim of this review is to present the specific roles played by the xanthophylls, and specifically astaxanthin and fucoxanthin, two high added value carotenoids, and by microalgal phytosterols such as β-sitosterol, campesterol and stigmasterol on several cell mechanisms involved in the prevention of cardiometabolic diseases and cancers. This review explains how these microalgal molecules modulate cell signaling pathways involved in carbohydrate and lipid metabolisms, inflammation, apoptosis, invasion and metastasis. Xanthophylls and phytosterols are involved in the reduction of inflammatory markers in relation with the regulation of the c-Jun N-terminal kinases and nuclear factor-kappa B signaling pathways, and suppression of production of pro-inflammatory mediators. Xanthophylls act on glucose and lipid metabolisms via both the upregulation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) and glucose transporters and its effects on the expression of enzymes involved in fatty acid synthesis and cholesterol metabolism. Their anti-cancer effects are related to the induction of intrinsic apoptosis due to down-regulation of key regulatory kinases. The anti-angiogenesis, anti-proliferative and anti-invasive effects are correlated with decreased production of endothelial growth factors and of matrix metalloproteinases. Phytosterols have a major role on cholesterol absorption via modification of the activities of Niemann-Pick C1 like 1 and ATP-binding cassette transporters and on cholesterol esterification. Their action are also related with the modulation of PPARs and sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1 activities.

Topics: Apoptosis; Carbohydrate Metabolism; Cardiovascular Diseases; Cholesterol; Dietary Supplements; Humans; Lipid Metabolism; Metabolic Diseases; Microalgae; Neoplasms; Phytosterols; Signal Transduction; Sitosterols; Xanthophylls

Since the industrial revolution, the consumption of processed food increased dramatically. During processing, food material loses many of its natural properties.. The simple restoration of the original properties of the processed food as well as fortification require food supplementation with compounds prepared chemically or of natural origin. The observations that natural food additives are safer and better accepted by consumers than synthetic ones have strongly increased the demand for natural compounds. Because some of them have only a low abundance or are even rare, their market price can be very high. This is the case for most carotenoids of natural origin to which this review is dedicated. The increasing demand for food additives of natural origin contributes to an accelerated depletion of traditional natural resources already threatened by intensive agriculture and pollution. To overcome these difficulties and satisfy the demand, alternative sources for natural carotenoids have to be found. In this context, photosynthetic microalgae present a very high potential because they contain carotenoids and are able to produce particular carotenoids under stress. Their potential also resides in the fact that only ten thousands of microalgal strains have been described while hundred thousands of species are predicted to exist. Carotenoids have been known for ages for their antioxidant and coloring properties, and a large body of evidence has been accumulated about their health potential.. This review summarizes both the medicinal and food industry applications of microalgae with emphasis on the former. In addition, traditional and alternative microalgal sources used for industrial carotenoid extraction, the chemical and physical properties, the biosynthesis and the localization of carotenoids in algae are also briefly discussed.

Topics: Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Antineoplastic Agents; Antioxidants; Cardiovascular Diseases; Carotenoids; Food Coloring Agents; Microalgae; Neoplasms; Neurodegenerative Diseases; Xanthophylls

Cardiovascular disease is the main contributor to morbidity and mortality worldwide. Based on its unique chemical features, the xanthophyll carotenoid astaxanthin is being proposed as a suitable preventive and therapeutic agent in cardiovascular disease. This review focuses on recent advances in astaxanthin research relevant to cardiovascular health and disease, i.e. its direct antioxidant, indirect antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive, anti-diabetic, renoprotective, lipid-lowering and anti-atherosclerotic activities in vitro and in vivo. Disparities in the biological activities and health benefits of astaxanthin observed in vitro (strong evidence), in animals (moderate evidence), and in humans (weak evidence) and the variety of astaxanthin sources hamper efforts to establish areas of astaxanthin application in human health care. A list of knowledge gaps and experimental pitfalls is proposed to overcome some of the short-comings in astaxanthin research.

Topics: Animals; Cardiovascular Diseases; Cardiovascular System; Humans; Xanthophylls

Astaxanthin is a naturally occurring red carotenoid pigment classified as a xanthophyll, found in microalgae and seafood such as salmon, trout, and shrimp. This review focuses on astaxanthin as a bioactive compound and outlines the evidence associated with its potential role in the prevention of atherosclerosis. Astaxanthin has a unique molecular structure that is responsible for its powerful antioxidant activities by quenching singlet oxygen and scavenging free radicals. Astaxanthin has been reported to inhibit low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation and to increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol and adiponectin levels in clinical studies. Accumulating evidence suggests that astaxanthin could exert preventive actions against atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD) via its potential to improve oxidative stress, inflammation, lipid metabolism, and glucose metabolism. In addition to identifying mechanisms of astaxanthin bioactivity by basic research, much more epidemiological and clinical evidence linking reduced CVD risk with dietary astaxanthin intake is needed.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Atherosclerosis; Cardiovascular Diseases; Carotenoids; Dietary Supplements; Humans; Microalgae; Oxidative Stress; Seafood; Xanthophylls

Cardiovascular disease related to atherosclerosis represents nowadays the largest cause of morbidity and mortality in developed countries. Due to inflammatory nature of atherosclerosis, several studies had been conducted in order to search for substances with anti-inflammatory activity on arterial walls, able to exert beneficial roles on health. Researches investigated the role of dietary carotenoids supplementation on cardiovascular disease, due to their free radicals scavenger properties and their skills in improving low-density lipoprotein cholesterol resistance to oxidation. Nevertheless, literature data are conflicting: although some studies found a positive relationship between carotenoids supplementation and cardiovascular risk reduction, others did not find any positive effects or even prooxidant actions. This paper aimed at defining the role of carotenoids supplementation on cardiovascular risk profile by reviewing literature data, paying attention to those carotenoids more present in our diet (β-carotene, α-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, lycopene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and astaxanthin).

Topics: Animals; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Antioxidants; Atherosclerosis; beta Carotene; Cardiovascular Diseases; Carotenoids; Cholesterol, LDL; Clinical Trials as Topic; Cryptoxanthins; Diet; Free Radical Scavengers; Humans; Lutein; Lycopene; Oxygen; Risk; Xanthophylls; Zeaxanthins

Oxidative stress and inflammation are established processes contributing to cardiovascular disease caused by atherosclerosis. However, antioxidant therapies tested in cardiovascular disease such as vitamin E, C and β-carotene have proved unsuccessful at reducing cardiovascular events and mortality. Although these outcomes may reflect limitations in trial design, new, more potent antioxidant therapies are being pursued. Astaxanthin, a carotenoid found in microalgae, fungi, complex plants, seafood, flamingos and quail is one such agent. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Limited, short duration and small sample size studies have assessed the effects of astaxanthin on oxidative stress and inflammation biomarkers and have investigated bioavailability and safety. So far no significant adverse events have been observed and biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation are attenuated with astaxanthin supplementation. Experimental investigations in a range of species using a cardiac ischaemia-reperfusion model demonstrated cardiac muscle preservation when astaxanthin is administered either orally or intravenously prior to the induction of ischaemia. Human clinical cardiovascular studies using astaxanthin therapy have not yet been reported. On the basis of the promising results of experimental cardiovascular studies and the physicochemical and antioxidant properties and safety profile of astaxanthin, clinical trials should be undertaken.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Cardiovascular Diseases; Cardiovascular System; Humans; Xanthophylls

Astaxanthin is a xanthophyll carotenoid present in microalgae, fungi, complex plants, seafood, flamingos and quail. It is an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties and as such has potential as a therapeutic agent in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Synthetic forms of astaxanthin have been manufactured. The safety, bioavailability and effects of astaxanthin on oxidative stress and inflammation that have relevance to the pathophysiology of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, have been assessed in a small number of clinical studies. No adverse events have been reported and there is evidence of a reduction in biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation with astaxanthin administration. Experimental studies in several species using an ischaemia-reperfusion myocardial model demonstrated that astaxanthin protects the myocardium when administered both orally or intravenously prior to the induction of the ischaemic event. At this stage we do not know whether astaxanthin is of benefit when administered after a cardiovascular event and no clinical cardiovascular studies in humans have been completed and/or reported. Cardiovascular clinical trials are warranted based on the physicochemical and antioxidant properties, the safety profile and preliminary experimental cardiovascular studies of astaxanthin.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Atherosclerosis; Cardiovascular Diseases; Disease Models, Animal; Humans; Inflammation; Oxidative Stress; Xanthophylls

Marine carotenoids are important bioactive compounds with physiological activities related to prevention of degenerative diseases found principally in plants, with potential antioxidant biological properties deriving from their chemical structure and interaction with biological membranes. They are substances with very special and remarkable properties that no other groups of substances possess and that form the basis of their many, varied functions and actions in all kinds of living organisms. The potential beneficial effects of marine carotenoids have been studied particularly in astaxanthin and fucoxanthin as they are the major marine carotenoids. Both these two carotenoids show strong antioxidant activity attributed to quenching singlet oxygen and scavenging free radicals. The potential role of these carotenoids as dietary anti-oxidants has been suggested to be one of the main mechanisms for their preventive effects against cancer and inflammatory diseases. The aim of this short review is to examine the published studies concerning the use of the two marine carotenoids, astaxanthin and fucoxanthin, in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Biomarkers; Cardiovascular Diseases; Carotenoids; Clinical Trials as Topic; Humans; Oceans and Seas; Xanthophylls

Astaxanthin, a xanthophyll carotenoid, is a nutrient with unique cell membrane actions and diverse clinical benefits. This molecule neutralizes free radicals or other oxidants by either accepting or donating electrons, and without being destroyed or becoming a pro-oxidant in the process. Its linear, polar-nonpolar-polar molecular layout equips it to precisely insert into the membrane and span its entire width. In this position, astaxanthin can intercept reactive molecular species within the membrane's hydrophobic interior and along its hydrophilic boundaries. Clinically, astaxanthin has shown diverse benefits, with excellent safety and tolerability. In double-blind, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), astaxanthin lowered oxidative stress in overweight and obese subjects and in smokers. It blocked oxidative DNA damage, lowered C-reactive protein (CRP) and other inflammation biomarkers, and boosted immunity in the tuberculin skin test. Astaxanthin lowered triglycerides and raised HDL-cholesterol in another trial and improved blood flow in an experimental microcirculation model. It improved cognition in a small clinical trial and boosted proliferation and differentiation of cultured nerve stem cells. In several Japanese RCTs, astaxanthin improved visual acuity and eye accommodation. It improved reproductive performance in men and reflux symptoms in H. pylori patients. In preliminary trials it showed promise for sports performance (soccer). In cultured cells, astaxanthin protected the mitochondria against endogenous oxygen radicals, conserved their redox (antioxidant) capacity, and enhanced their energy production efficiency. The concentrations used in these cells would be attainable in humans by modest dietary intakes. Astaxanthin's clinical success extends beyond protection against oxidative stress and inflammation, to demonstrable promise for slowing age-related functional decline.

Topics: Aging; Antioxidants; Cardiovascular Diseases; Cell Membrane; Cognition Disorders; Complementary Therapies; Fibrinolytic Agents; Food; Humans; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; Xanthophylls

It is accepted that oxidative stress and inflammation play an integral role in the pathophysiology of many chronic diseases including atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The xanthophyll carotenoid dietary supplement astaxanthin has demonstrated potential as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory therapeutic agent in models of cardiovascular disease. There have been at least eight clinical studies conducted in over 180 humans using astaxanthin to assess its safety, bioavailability and clinical aspects relevant to oxidative stress, inflammation or the cardiovascular system. There have been no adverse outcomes reported. Studies have demonstrated reduced markers of oxidative stress and inflammation and improved blood rheology. A larger number of experimental studies have been performed using astaxanthin. In particular, studies in a variety of animals using a model of myocardial ischemia and reperfusion have demonstrated protective effects from prior administration of astaxanthin both intravenously and orally. Future clinical studies and trials will help determine the efficacy of antioxidants such as astaxanthin on vascular structure, function, oxidative stress and inflammation in a variety of patients at risk of, or with, established cardiovascular disease. These may lead to large intervention trials assessing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Blood Circulation; Cardiovascular Diseases; Carotenoids; Diabetic Nephropathies; Humans; Inflammation; Lipid Peroxidation; Muscle, Skeletal; Myocardium; Oxidative Stress; Xanthophylls

Carotenoids are naturally occurring organic pigments that are believed to have therapeutic benefit in treating cardiovascular disease (CVD) because of their antioxidant properties. However, prospective randomized trials have failed to demonstrate a consistent benefit for the carotenoid beta-carotene in patients at risk for CVD. The basis for this apparent paradox is not well understood but may be attributed to the distinct antioxidant properties of various carotenoids resulting from their structure-dependent physicochemical interactions with biologic membranes. To test this hypothesis, we measured the effects of astaxanthin, zeaxanthin, lutein, beta-carotene, and lycopene on lipid peroxidation using model membranes enriched with polyunsaturated fatty acids. The correlative effects of these compounds on membrane structure were determined using small-angle x-ray diffraction approaches. The nonpolar carotenoids, lycopene and beta-carotene, disordered the membrane bilayer and stimulated membrane lipid peroxidation (>85% increase in lipid hydroperoxide levels), whereas astaxanthin (a polar carotenoid) preserved membrane structure and exhibited significant antioxidant activity (>40% decrease in lipid hydroperoxide levels). These results suggest that the antioxidant potential of carotenoids is dependent on their distinct membrane lipid interactions. This relation of structure and function may explain the differences in biologic activity reported for various carotenoids, with important therapeutic implications.

Topics: beta Carotene; Cardiovascular Diseases; Carotenoids; Endothelium, Vascular; Humans; Lipid Peroxidation; Lutein; Lycopene; Oxidative Stress; Xanthophylls; Zeaxanthins

Oxidative stress and inflammation are implicated in several different manifestations of cardiovascular disease (CVD). They are generated, in part, from the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) that activate transcriptional messengers, such as nuclear factor-kappaB, tangibly contributing to endothelial dysfunction, the initiation and progression of atherosclerosis, irreversible damage after ischemic reperfusion, and even arrhythmia, such as atrial fibrillation. Despite this connection between oxidative stress and CVD, there are currently no recognized therapeutic interventions to address this important unmet need. Antioxidants that provide a broad, "upstream" approach via ROS/RNS quenching or free radical chain breaking seem an appropriate therapeutic option based on epidemiologic, dietary, and in vivo animal model data. However, human clinical trials with several different well-known agents, such as vitamin E and beta-carotene, have been disappointing. Does this mean antioxidants as a class are ineffective, or rather that the "right" compound(s) have yet to be found, their mechanisms of action understood, and their appropriate targeting and dosages determined? A large class of potent naturally-occurring antioxidants exploited by nature-the oxygenated carotenoids (xanthophylls)-have demonstrated utility in their natural form but have eluded development as successful targeted therapeutic agents up to the present time. This article characterizes the mechanism by which this novel group of antioxidants function and reviews their preclinical development. Results from multiple species support the antioxidant/anti-inflammatory properties of the prototype compound, astaxanthin, establishing it as an appropriate candidate for development as a therapeutic agent for cardiovascular oxidative stress and inflammation.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Cardiovascular Diseases; Endothelium, Vascular; Humans; Inflammation; Inflammation Mediators; Oxidative Stress; Reactive Nitrogen Species; Reactive Oxygen Species; Xanthophylls

Astaxanthin is a carotenoid widely used in salmonid and crustacean aquaculture to provide the pink color characteristic of that species. This application has been well documented for over two decades and is currently the major market driver for the pigment. Additionally, astaxanthin also plays a key role as an intermediary in reproductive processes. Synthetic astaxanthin dominates the world market but recent interest in natural sources of the pigment has increased substantially. Common sources of natural astaxanthin are the green algae Haematococcus pluvialis, the red yeast, Phaffia rhodozyma, as well as crustacean byproducts. Astaxanthin possesses an unusual antioxidant activity which has caused a surge in the nutraceutical market for the encapsulated product. Also, health benefits such as cardiovascular disease prevention, immune system boosting, bioactivity against Helycobacter pylori, and cataract prevention, have been associated with astaxanthin consumption. Research on the health benefits of astaxanthin is very recent and has mostly been performed in vitro or at the pre-clinical level with humans. This paper reviews the current available evidence regarding astaxanthin chemistry and its potential beneficial effects in humans.

Topics: Animals; Antioxidants; Aquaculture; Cardiovascular Diseases; Crustacea; Dietary Supplements; Eukaryota; Helicobacter Infections; Helicobacter pylori; Humans; Immunity; Molecular Structure; Neoplasms; Xanthophylls; Yeasts

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of 12 weeks of high-intensity training with astaxanthin supplementation on adipokine levels, insulin resistance and lipid profiles in males with obesity. Sixty-eight males with obesity were randomly stratified into four groups of seventeen subjects each: control group (CG), supplement group (SG), training group (TG), and training plus supplement group (TSG). Participants underwent 12 weeks of treatment with astaxanthin or placebo (20 mg/d capsule daily). The training protocol consisted of 36 sessions of high-intensity functional training (HIFT), 60 min/sessions, and three sessions/week. Metabolic profiles, body composition, anthropometrical measurements, cardio-respiratory indices and adipokine [Cq1/TNF-related protein 9 and 2 (CTRP9 and CTRP2) levels, and growth differentiation factors 8 and 15 (GDF8 and GDF15)] were measured. There were significant differences for all indicators between the groups (p < 0.05). Post-hoc analysis indicated that the levels of CTRP9, CTRP2, and GDF8 were different from CG (p < 0.05), although levels of GDF15 were similar to CG (p > 0.05). Levels of GDF8 were similar in the SG and TG groups (p > 0.05), with reductions of GDF15 levels in both training groups (p < 0.05). A total of 12 weeks of astaxanthin supplementation and exercise training decreased adipokines levels, body composition (weight, %fat), anthropometrical factors (BMI), and improved lipid and metabolic profiles. These benefits were greater for men with obesity in the TSG group.

Topics: Adipokines; Body Composition; Cardiovascular Diseases; Dietary Supplements; Heart Disease Risk Factors; High-Intensity Interval Training; Humans; Lipids; Male; Obesity; Risk Factors

Inflammation plays a key role and is one of the early steps in the pathogenesis of endothelial function, thereby increasing the risk of hypertension (HTN), coronary artery disease (CAD), stroke and several other risk factors of cardiovascular disease (CVD). We assessed the efficacy for improving cardiovascular health (blood pressure, inflammation and endothelial reactivity) over a 4-week intervention period in healthy individuals.. We performed a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial to investigate Curcumin, Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), Astaxanthin and Gamma -linoleic acid (GLA) (CEAG) supplements with 80 individuals (30 men and 50 women). The mean age of participants was 48.8 ± 16.0 years. Participants were enrolled and randomized to active or placebo and followed for 4 weeks. Paired and Independent T-tests were used to analyze the mean differences between and within groups.. The primary endpoints of the study were the effect on inflammatory markers (IL-6, CRP), endothelial function and blood pressure at 4 weeks. There was a significant reduction in mean SBP at 4 weeks in the CEAG group compared to placebo [mean ± SD 4.7 ± 6.8 (p = 0.002)]. Relative to placebo, active group showed a significant decrease in High sensitivity C Reactive Protein (hsCRP) (-0.49 ± 1.9 vs + 0.51 ± 2.5, p = 0.059) and blunted increase in IL-6 (+0.2 vs + 0.4 in placebo, p = 0.60).. Inflammatory markers were reduced or blunted by CEAG, with a robust increase in both EPA levels and the fatty acid index. Furthermore, systolic BP was reduced over 4 weeks with concurrent improvement in endothelial function. CLINICALTRIALS.. NCT03906825.

Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Biomarkers; Blood Pressure; C-Reactive Protein; Cardiovascular Diseases; Coronary Artery Disease; Dietary Supplements; Double-Blind Method; Eicosapentaenoic Acid; Endothelium; Fatty Acids, Omega-3; Female; gamma-Linolenic Acid; Healthy Volunteers; Humans; Hypertension; Interleukin-6; Male; Middle Aged; Xanthophylls; Young Adult

To determine the effects of astaxanthin treatment on lipids, cardiovascular disease (CVD) markers, glucose tolerance, insulin action and inflammation in individuals with prediabetes and dyslipidaemia.. Adult participants with dyslipidaemia and prediabetes (n = 34) underwent baseline blood draw, an oral glucose tolerance test and a one-step hyperinsulinaemic-euglycaemic clamp. They were then randomized (n = 22 treated, 12 placebo) to receive astaxanthin 12 mg daily or placebo for 24 weeks. Baseline studies were repeated after 12 and 24 weeks of therapy.. Although the primary endpoint did not meet the prespecified significance level, these data suggest that astaxanthin is a safe over-the-counter supplement that improves lipid profiles and markers of CVD risk in individuals with prediabetes and dyslipidaemia.

Topics: Adult; Antioxidants; Blood Glucose; Cardiovascular Diseases; Cholesterol; Dyslipidemias; Glucose; Heart Disease Risk Factors; Humans; Insulin; Prediabetic State; Risk Factors

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a major type of dementia disorder. Common cognitive changes occur as a result of cerebrovascular damage (CVD) via the disruption of matrix metalloproteinase-13 (MMP-13). In diabetic cases, the progress of vascular dementia is faster and the AD rate is higher. Patients with type 2 diabetes are known to have a higher risk of the factor for AD progression. Hence, this study is designed to investigate the role of astaxanthin (AST) in CVD-associated AD in zebrafish via the inhibition of MMP-13 activity. CVD was developed through the intraperitoneal and intracerebral injection of streptozotocin (STZ). The AST (10 and 20 mg/L), donepezil (1 mg/L), and MMP-13 inhibitor (i.e., CL-82198; 10 μM) were exposed for 21 consecutive days in CVD animals. The cognitive changes in zebrafish were evaluated through light and dark chamber tests, a color recognition test, and a T-maze test. The biomarkers of AD pathology were assessed via the estimation of the cerebral extravasation of Evans blue, tissue nitrite, amyloid beta-peptide aggregation, MMP-13 activity, and acetylcholinesterase activity. The results revealed that exposure to AST leads to ameliorative behavioral and biochemical changes. Hence, AST can be used for the management of AD due to its multi-targeted actions, including MMP-13 inhibition.

Topics: Acetylcholinesterase; Alzheimer Disease; Amyloid beta-Peptides; Animals; Cardiovascular Diseases; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Matrix Metalloproteinase 13; Zebrafish

Topics: Animals; Brain; Calcium; Cardiovascular Diseases; Heart Failure; Isoproterenol; Mitochondria; Mitochondria, Heart; Mitochondrial Membrane Transport Proteins; Rats; Xanthophylls

It is known that vitamin E and some carotenoids have antioxidant activities that alleviate endothelial dysfunction and play a protective role against cardiovascular disease. The current study was designed to examine the hypothesis that astaxanthin, a red pigment carotenoid found in salmonid and crustacean aquaculture, protects stroke-prone spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRSP) from vascular oxidative damage, hypertension, and cerebral thrombosis. Male 6-week-old SHRSP were classified into 4 groups: a control group, 2 astaxanthin groups, and a vitamin E group. The treated animals were given either astaxanthin or vitamin E for 3 weeks. Body weights in each group were not significantly different from control group during the treatment period, but the usual increase in systolic blood pressure in SHRSP observed with age was significantly suppressed by treatment. Thrombogenesis, assessed using a helium-neon (He-Ne) laser technique in pial blood vessels, together with antioxidant activity, assessed by measuring urinary 8-OHdG levels, were significantly moderated. Urinary nitric oxide (NO) metabolites were increased after treatment. These results supported our hypothesis and strongly suggested that the antithrombotic and antihypertensive effects of astaxanthin or vitamin E may be related to an increase in bioavailable NO, possibly mediated by decreased inactivation of NO by reactive oxygen species.

Topics: 8-Hydroxy-2'-Deoxyguanosine; Animals; Antihypertensive Agents; Antioxidants; Cardiovascular Diseases; Deoxyguanosine; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Fibrinolytic Agents; Hypertension; Intracranial Thrombosis; Male; Nitrates; Nitric Oxide; Nitrites; Oxidative Stress; Rats; Rats, Inbred SHR; Risk Factors; Specific Pathogen-Free Organisms; Stroke; Xanthophylls