Researchers affiliated with the University of Seville and the University of Kent have put forth the notion that phytoene—a colorless carotenoid naturally found in carrots, bell peppers, tomatoes, and oranges—might play a role in extending lifespan and safeguarding the nervous system. Their findings have been documented and highlighted by SciTechDaily. The investigative work employed the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, a model organism widely utilized in biomedical research.
During the observation period, the lifespan of the worms exposed to phytoene saw an extension ranging from 10 to 18.6 percent. Concurrently, the toxic impact of the amyloid-β42 protein, which is implicated in the formation of brain plaques associated with Alzheimer’s disease, decreased by 30 to 40 percent. In the model organism used, the accumulation of this protein typically leads to progressive paralysis; however, the worms that received the compound exhibited these symptoms at a later stage.
For quite some time, phytoene failed to capture significant researcher interest because, unlike compounds such as lycopene or beta-carotene, it does not impart a vibrant hue to foodstuffs and was primarily regarded as an intermediate substance. This particular study forms a component of the doctoral research conducted by Ángeles Morón Ortiz. The experiments utilized both purified phytoene and extracts derived from microalgae species, Chlorella sorokiniana and Dunaliella bardawil, both known for their high phytoene content. In both cases, a comparable beneficial outcome was noted. Furthermore, the growth and feeding habits of the worms were unaffected, suggesting that the observed results were not contingent upon caloric restriction.
Additional trials indicated that the substance bolsters resistance to oxidative stress—a condition where reactive molecules inflict cellular damage, thereby contributing to aging and the progression of cancer and neurodegenerative disorders. At particular concentrations, survival rates under such duress increased by as much as 53 percent. These data align with the established capabilities of carotenoids to either neutralize harmful molecules or initiate the body’s intrinsic defense mechanisms.
Dr. Paula Mapelli Bram emphasized that the results obtained are preliminary and warrant further investigation into the compound’s mechanisms of action. She noted that the team is currently seeking financial resources to continue their research endeavors.
The scientists also call attention to the significance of phytoene within the human diet. Available data suggest that human consumption of phytoene is substantial relative to several other carotenoids. The compound has the capacity to accumulate in various tissues, including the skin, and preliminary research implies it may offer protection against ultraviolet radiation.
The authors propose microalgae as a promising source for obtaining phytoene. These organisms present rapid growth rates, do not necessitate vast land areas, and can generate substantial concentrations of beneficial compounds. Such organisms are already integrated into dietary supplements, and their importance in future nutritional paradigms is expected to grow.
At the same time, the researchers stress that these findings originated from a relatively simple biological system. Although Caenorhabditis elegans has proven instrumental in prior research concerning aging and gene regulation, further studies are essential to validate comparable effects in human subjects. Concurrently, the team is investigating phytoene’s influence on dermal health: in subsequent experiments, microalgal extracts were shown to reinforce the skin barrier function in the worms and enhance structural integrity, potentially opening avenues for innovations in skincare and age-related preventative measures.
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