Abstract

Lutein ((all-E,3R,3R,6R)-β,η-carotene-3,3-diol) is the main carotenoid that can be found in light-harvesting complexes of higher plants and it is also involved in human diet. In the extracts of human plasma the 3-epimer of lutein, several geometrical isomers, dehydration and oxidation products of lutein have been identified. It was also established that lutein reduces the risk of AMD (age-related macular degeneration). This mini review focuses on the in vitro and in vivo transformations of lutein.

Keywords: Lutein, anhydroluteins, 3'-epilutein, 3-oxolutein