Abstract

Background: Zeaxanthin is a natural pigment known to play an important role in macular region of retina. However, the biological functions of the microbial zeaxanthin from a new source were not clear.

Objective: To study the biological functions of the new microbial zeaxanthin.

Method: Cell viability, antioxidant activity, melanin content, anti-proliferation effect were measured after treatments of the microbial zeaxanthin.

Results: It was found that the microbial zeaxanthin was a potent antioxidant which could also increase cell viability under UV irradiation, decrease melanin content, and suppress cancer cell proliferation.

Conclusion: The present study showed that microbial zeaxanthin could be a good ingredient for use in health care and skin care products (Ken-Shwo Dai, Olleya marilimosa and its use in a method for the preparation of a composition comprising zeaxanthin; EP2441433).

Keywords: Anti-melanin, antioxidant, anti-proliferation, cosmetics, microbial zeaxanthin, nutraceutical, pharmaceuticals, photoprotection.