Abstract
Abstract: Astaxanthin (AST) is a naturally occurring compound isolated from various sources such as
fungi, plants, salmon, and crab. However, Haematococcus Pluvialis, a green alga, is the primary
source of this beta carotenoid compound. AST has several favourable biological and pharmacological
activities such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-diabetes, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective
activities. Nevertheless, the exact molecular mechanisms of these protective effects of
AST are unclear yet. The Nrf2 signaling pathway is one of the critical candidate signaling pathways
that may be involved in these beneficial effects of AST. This signaling pathway is responsible for
maintaining the redox balance in the physiological state. Upon nuclear translocation, Nrf2 signaling
activates antioxidant enzymes to reduce oxidative stress and protect cells against damage. In the current
study, we have reviewed the effects of AST on the Nrf2 signaling pathway, which could potentially
be developed as a novel therapeutic approach for the management of various diseases.
Keywords:
Astaxanthin, oxidative stress, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, Nrf2 signaling pathway, renoprotective, diabetes mellitus.
Graphical Abstract
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Amirhossein Sahebkar*
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