Tomato Phytonutrients Balance UV Response: Results from a Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Nutritional Science
• Photobiology

Background:

• Previous studies indicated lycopene-rich tomato nutrient complex (TNC) protects against UVA and UVB-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and aging markers.
• This study investigates the protective effects of a synergistic carotenoid-rich TNC against UVB radiation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a carotenoid-rich TNC in preventing UVB-induced erythema.
• To assess the impact of TNC on molecular markers of inflammation and immunosuppression.
• To correlate these effects with blood carotenoid levels.

Main Methods:

• A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled multicenter study involving 149 healthy volunteers.
• Participants received either TNC (lycopene, phytoene, phytofluene, β-carotene, tocopherols, carnosic acid) or placebo for 12 weeks after a 5-week washout.
• Evaluations included Minimal Erythemal Dose (MED) determination, UVB irradiation, chromametry, biopsies, and blood sampling.

Main Results:

• The TNC supplement was well-tolerated and significantly reduced UVB-induced erythema formation (measured as Δa*).
• It also significantly protected against UVB-induced upregulation of IL6 and TNFα.
• Carotenoid plasma levels were significantly elevated in the TNC group compared to placebo.

Conclusions:

• The carotenoid-containing TNC supplement is well-tolerated and offers significant protection against UVB-induced erythema.
• It effectively mitigates UVB-induced inflammation by reducing proinflammatory cytokines.
• Increased plasma carotenoid levels confirm absorption and biological activity.