Introduction | Carotenoids | Occurrence | Examples | Biosynthesis | Tech. Synthesis | Literature
Of the various classes of pigments in nature the carotenoids are among the most widespread and important ones, especially due to their most varied functions. In 1831 Wackenroder isolated carotene from carrots and in 1837 Berzelius named the yellow pigments from autumn leaves xanthophylls. This marks the beginning of carotenoid research and since then continuous developments have taken place. Because of their ubiquitous occurrence, different functions (see below), and interesting properties carotenoids are the subject of interdisciplinary research in chemistry, biochemistry, biology, medicine, physics, and many other branches of science.
Carotenoids can help you to:
- Minimize the risk for certain types of cancer;
- Reduce the risk for CVD’s;
- Help to avoid cataracts.
They further:
- Have an important role in photosynthesis;
- Are powerful antioxidants in nature;
- Are used to attract animals (and humans) with their color.
Further information on function here