Update on pharmacological aspects of carotenoids: molecules of pharmaceutical promise

Abstract

Carotenoids are photosynthetic light-absorbing pigments found in plants. They are well known for their pharmacological activities in different ailments. Plants, fungi, algae, and different microorganisms are the natural sources of carotenoids. These molecules are most commonly known for their antioxidant properties. Rather than that, they are found to be effective against some other severe diseases. The present study aims to accumulate these molecules as a new therapeutic agent, as they have substantial efficacy to prevent and minimize the symptoms of many conditions like cancer, diabetes, inflammation, atherosclerosis, depression, neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer, cerebral ischemia and many more. Yet more research and analysis are needed to make these pharmacologically active compounds usable to mankind. In this study we have reviewed the sources, biosynthesis, separation and pharmacological activities of different naturally occurring carotenoids.