Zeaxanthin and Lutein: Photoprotectors, Anti-Inflammatories, and Brain Food

Overview

Journal Molecules

Publisher MDPI

Specialty Biology

Date 2020 Aug 14

PMID 32784397

Citations 38

Authors

Barbara Demmig-Adams

Marina Lopez-Pozo

Jared J Stewart

William W Adams 3rd

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

This review compares and contrasts the role of carotenoids across the taxa of life-with a focus on the xanthophyll zeaxanthin (and its structural isomer lutein) in plants and humans. Xanthophylls' multiple protective roles are summarized, with attention to the similarities and differences in the roles of zeaxanthin and lutein in plants versus animals, as well as the role of -zeaxanthin in humans. Detail is provided on the unique control of zeaxanthin function in photosynthesis, that results in its limited availability in leafy vegetables and the human diet. The question of an optimal dietary antioxidant supply is evaluated in the context of the dual roles of both oxidants and antioxidants, in all vital functions of living organisms, and the profound impact of individual and environmental context.

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