Role of Carotenoids in Preventing Oxidative Stress–Induced Cancer

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Handbook of Oxidative Stress in Cancer: Therapeutic Aspects

Abstract

Oxidative stress is the disproportion between the creation and balance of reactive oxygen species. Numerous recurrent ailments are described by high levels of inflammation and oxidative stress. Chemically, carotenoids are tetraterpenoids (C40 compounds), contain 8 isoprenoid residues, are mostly lipophilic in nature, and are synthesized by plants and few microorganisms; however, animals must take them through diet or food supplements. Carotenoids are classified into two basic groups – carotenes and xanthophylls. Lycopene, α-carotene and beta-carotene, comes under carotenes having hydrocarbon chain, while xanthophylls including lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-cryptoxanthin, and astaxanthin are oxidized derivatives of carotenes. Additionally, in the human body vitamin A (provitamin A carotenoids) is derived from dietary carotenoids.

There is actually a huge number of exploration considers that have researched the part of carotenoids in human health, beginning in the 1800s. A large number of studies have shown that carotenoids are related to antioxidant properties, immune modulators, reduced risk of various types of cancers, coronary artery diseases, and some eye disorders. This chapter discusses the types, sources, synthesis, uses, and protective efficacy of various types of carotenoids. Moreover, this chapter highlights the antioxidant properties of carotenoids, reflecting a wide range of key functional roles in biology.

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Sindhu, E.R., Kavya, A.K., Binitha, P.P. (2022). Role of Carotenoids in Preventing Oxidative Stress–Induced Cancer. In: Chakraborti, S. (eds) Handbook of Oxidative Stress in Cancer: Therapeutic Aspects. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-16-5422-0_27

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