Astaxanthin anticancer effects are mediated through multiple molecular mechanisms: A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Natural product chemistry
• Molecular oncology
• Carotenoid research

Background:

• Growing interest in natural compounds for cancer therapy.
• Existing chemotherapy drugs derived from natural sources.
• Astaxanthin identified as a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the anticancer potential of astaxanthin.
• To explore its molecular targets and mechanisms of action.
• To assess its efficacy in various cancer models.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of in vitro and preclinical studies.
• Analysis of astaxanthin's effects on cancer cell lines (colorectal, melanoma, gastric).
• Investigation of its impact on apoptosis-related proteins (Bcl-2, Bax/Bad, PARP).

Main Results:

• Astaxanthin induces apoptosis by modulating key regulatory proteins.
• Demonstrates antiproliferative and anti-migratory effects on cancer cells.
• Enhances the efficacy of conventional chemotherapy drugs.

Conclusions:

• Astaxanthin exhibits multitarget anticancer activity in preclinical settings.
• Potential therapeutic agent for cancer prevention and treatment.
• Further clinical trials are required to validate human efficacy.