Carotenoids from microalgae to block oxidative stress

Summary Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced under normal physiological conditions and involved in several cellular biochemical processes. Their external or endogenous overproduction induces a disruption of redox signaling and control known as oxidative stress. Under oxidative stress, the cell membrane structures, enzyme functions and gene expression are compromised leading to the pathogenesis of several chronic inflammatory diseases including the cardiovascular pathologies. Attempts to find new therapeutic molecules capable of blocking the oxidative stress are of crucial importance. Owing to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, carotenoids have been proposed for the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. In particular, microalgae carotenoids such as astaxanthin and lutein have shown promising results. Due to their protective action, these carotenoids could have a high potential to treat ROS-related pathologies. However, a better understanding of their biological mechanisms of action and the appropriate administration and uses of delivery systems are needed in the prevention and treatment of chronic pathologies.