Fucoxanthin: A Promising Phytochemical on Diverse Pharmacological Targets

Fucoxanthin (FX) is a special carotenoid having an allenic bond in its structure. FX is extracted from a variety of algae and edible seaweeds. It has been proved to contain numerous health benefits and preventive effects against diseases like diabetes, obesity, liver cirrhosis, malignant cancer, etc. Thus, FX can be used as a potent source of both pharmacological and nutritional ingredient to prevent infectious diseases. In this review, we gathered the information regarding the current findings on antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, skin protective, anti-obesity, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and other properties of FX including its bioavailability and stability characteristics. This review aims to assist further biochemical studies in order to develop further pharmaceutical assets and nutritional products in combination with FX and its various metabolites.

Automated summary

Fucoxanthin (FX), a special carotenoid extracted from algae and seaweeds, has been proven to have numerous health benefits and preventive effects against various diseases. This review aims to gather information on the antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, skin protective, anti-obesity, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective properties of FX, as well as its bioavailability and stability characteristics, to assist further research in developing pharmaceutical assets and nutritional products.