Phytoene and Phytoene-Rich Microalgae Extracts Extend Lifespan in <i>C. elegans</i> and Protect against Amyloid-β Toxicity in an Alzheimer's Disease Model
Phytoene is a colourless carotenoid widely available from dietary sources and a precursor for the synthesis of other carotenoids. Although present at high concentrations across different tissues, phytoene is largely viewed as not having physiological activity. Here, we utilize the model organism <...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , |
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| Format: | Book |
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MDPI AG,
2024-07-01T00:00:00Z.
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| Summary: | Phytoene is a colourless carotenoid widely available from dietary sources and a precursor for the synthesis of other carotenoids. Although present at high concentrations across different tissues, phytoene is largely viewed as not having physiological activity. Here, we utilize the model organism <i>C. elegans</i> to show that phytoene is bioactive and has anti-ageing properties. Supplementation with phytoene protects against oxidative damage and amyloid-β<sub>42</sub> proteotoxicity (a major pathology of Alzheimer's disease), and extends lifespan. We also examine extracts from two microalgae, <i>Chlorella sorokiniana</i> and <i>Dunaliella bardawil</i>. We show that the extracts contain high levels of phytoene, and find that these phytoene-rich extracts have protective effects similar to pure phytoene. Our findings show that phytoene is a bioactive molecule with positive effects on ageing and longevity. Our work also suggests that phytoene-rich microalgae extracts can utilized to produce foods or supplements that promote healthy ageing and prevent the development of chronic age-related diseases. |
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| Item Description: | 10.3390/antiox13080931 2076-3921 |