An overview of the anticancer activity of astaxanthin and the associated cellular and molecular mechanisms

Abstract

Background

A lipophilic, reddish pigment derived from microorganisms and marine organisms, astaxanthin (ASX) exhibits substantial antioxidant activities. ASX is utilized in various forms, serving as a food colorant, antioxidant, and pharmaceutical ingredient.

Methods

The current narrative review summarized the beneficial effects of astaxanthin on health. All studies, including in vitro, in vivo, systematic reviews, from years 2000–2025, were evaluated.

Results

Research supports its preventive and therapeutic effects on cancer, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), inflammation, diabetes and nervous system, which can largely be ascribed to its inherent properties of anti-inflammation and antioxidant capabilities. Preclinical investigations, have demonstrated that ASX exerts its anti-tumorigenic effects. ASX acts through mechanisms related to oxidative stress, inflammation, and mitochondrial targeting. Additionally, ASX enhances the susceptibility of cancerous cells to chemotherapeutic agents while mitigating side effects. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated its ability to inhibit tumor progression, enhance apoptotic pathways, modulate gene expression associated with cellular viability and death, prevent damage to DNA, and subsequently induce cell cycle arrest in various cancerous models. Promising results in cancer treatment, along with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, underscore its potential as an adjuvant therapy to enhance the effectiveness of various cancer treatments in the future.

Conclusions

ASX demonstrates significant potential in impeding proliferation, motility, and also invasion of cancer cells, while enhancing the effectiveness of chemotherapeutic agents through multiple mechanisms. Utilizing innovative nanotechnology, a range of delivery vehicles, notably solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs), have been engineered to encapsulate ASX, thereby enhancing its stability and bioavailability.