Carotenoids

Violoxanthin is a naturally occurring carotenoid, which is a type of pigment found primarily in plants. As a product of the xanthophyll cycle, it plays a significant role in photosynthesis by protecting plants from photooxidative damage. Violoxanthin is derived from plant sources, including various fruits and vegetables that exhibit vivid colors due to the presence of carotenoids. The mode of action of violoxanthin involves its role in photoprotection and non-photochemical quenching, where it helps dissipate excessive light energy as heat, thus safeguarding photosynthetic organisms from damage by excess light. This antioxidant capacity can be linked to its structural characteristics, allowing it to interact effectively with free radicals and reactive oxygen species. The uses and applications of violoxanthin extend to fields such as food science, nutrition, and pharmaceuticals. Its antioxidant properties make it a subject of interest for potential health benefits, including roles in reducing oxidative stress-related conditions. Furthermore, as a naturally derived pigment, it is also explored for its use in natural food coloring and supplementation, contributing to the aesthetic and nutritional value of various consumables.

All-trans-Canthaxanthin - Technical grade is a carotenoid compound, which is a naturally occurring pigment. It is typically sourced through chemical synthesis or extraction from microorganisms such as algae or fungi. This compound functions as an antioxidant, donating electrons to neutralize free radicals, thereby preventing oxidative damage within cellular structures. The principal applications of all-trans-Canthaxanthin lie in its ability to enhance coloration in the tissues of aquatic life and birds. In aquaculture, it is added to fish feed to intensify the red or orange hues in species such as salmon and trout. In the poultry industry, it is used to improve the pigmentation of egg yolks and the skin of broilers. The inclusion of canthaxanthin not only affects external appearance but may also contribute to overall health by bolstering antioxidant defenses. Study of its precise biochemical pathways and potential long-term impacts remains an active area of research.

beta-Cryptoxanthin analytical standard provided with UV assay for quantitative titration.

Zeaxanthin analytical standard provided with UV assay for quantitative titration.

Zeaxanthin - 10% is a concentrated carotenoid formulation, specifically derived from natural sources such as marigold flowers. It functions primarily as a potent antioxidant within the human body, playing an essential role in quenching free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. This protective action is particularly concentrated in the macular region of the eye, where zeaxanthin and its isomer lutein are vital components. In scientific applications, Zeaxanthin - 10% is extensively utilized for its potential benefits in maintaining ocular health, given its capability to filter harmful high-energy blue light and to fortify the macular pigment. Research indicates that increased intake of zeaxanthin may contribute to the prevention and management of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and other retinal degenerative conditions. The product is thus of interest in nutritional studies, ophthalmology, and gerontology, wherein its role as a dietary supplement is continually explored to support visual function and overall eye health.

trans-Crocetin-98% is a high-purity carotenoid, which is a type of organic pigment. It is derived from the stigmas of the saffron (Crocus sativus) flower, where it is obtained through meticulous extraction processes to ensure its purity and efficacy. trans-Crocetin acts primarily as an antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress within biological systems. It modulates various signaling pathways, which can result in neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and potential anti-cancer activities. Used extensively in scientific research, trans-Crocetin-98% is instrumental in studies of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, due to its ability to protect neuronal cells from oxidative damage. It also finds applications in cardiovascular research, where its potential to improve blood flow and reduce plaque accumulation is of interest. Furthermore, trans-Crocetin's role in enhancing retinal function positions it as a valuable compound in ophthalmic studies, potentially aiding in the treatment of macular degeneration and other vision-related conditions.

Stability Light Sensitive, Temperature Sensitive Applications 15-cis-Phytoene is an intermediate in the biosynthesis of carotenoids. References Davidovich-Rikanati, R., et al.: Plant J., 56, 228 (2008), Puri, A., et al.: Weed Sci., 57, 482 (2009), Serino, S., et al.: J. Agric. Food Chem., 57, 8753 (2009),

Zeaxanthin dipalmitate is a carotenoid ester, which is derived primarily from natural sources such as marigold flowers. This compound is an esterified form of the carotenoid zeaxanthin, which enhances its stability and bioavailability. The mode of action involves the deposition of zeaxanthin dipalmitate in the macular region of the retina, where it acts as a protective antioxidant and filters high-energy blue light. The primary applications of zeaxanthin dipalmitate are in eye health supplements and nutraceuticals. Its ability to protect the eye from oxidative stress and light-induced damage makes it a valuable component in formulations aimed at reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and maintaining overall ocular health. Additionally, zeaxanthin dipalmitate's antioxidant properties contribute to its potential use in broader health applications where oxidative stress is a concern.

Stability Light Sensitive, Temperature Sensitive Applications Intermediate in the biosynthesis of carotenoids. References Umeno, D. & Arnold, F.; J. Bacteriol. 186, 1531 (2004).

Lutein - 20% is a carotenoid product, which is an extract derived from natural plant sources, such as marigold flowers (Tagetes erecta). It functions through its antioxidant capabilities, which involve scavenging free radicals and protecting cells from oxidative damage. This mode of action is critical for maintaining eye health, as lutein preferentially accumulates in the macula of the human eye, where it filters harmful blue light and supports visual function. In terms of applications, Lutein - 20% is widely used in the formulation of dietary supplements designed to support ocular health. It is also incorporated into functional foods and beverages, as well as cosmetic products aimed at promoting skin health due to its protective effects against light-induced damage. Furthermore, ongoing research explores its potential roles in cognitive health and chronic disease prevention, highlighting its importance in scientific studies focusing on aging and disease management.

Lutein - 50% is a carotenoid compound, specifically a xanthophyll, which is derived from marigold flowers (Tagetes erecta). Carotenoids like lutein are pigmented compounds that occur naturally in plants and are responsible for their vibrant colors. Lutein is isolated and then concentrated to achieve a 50% purity, typically using processes such as saponification and crystallization. In terms of mode of action, lutein functions primarily as an antioxidant. It is known to filter high-energy blue light and neutralize free radicals, thereby protecting cells from oxidative damage. This ability to attenuate oxidative stress is vital in maintaining the structural integrity of ocular tissues. Lutein - 50% is commonly used in scientific research and formulation of dietary supplements aimed at promoting eye health. It is particularly noted for its role in supporting macular health and protecting against age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Beyond ophthalmic applications, its antioxidant properties are also explored in broader cellular health studies.

Picrocrocin is a natural compound, specifically a monoterpene glycoside. It is derived from the Crocus sativus L. plant, commonly known as saffron. Picrocrocin is formed during the dehydration of the zeaxanthin carotenoid and is stored in the saffron stigmas. As a glycosidic precursor to the volatile compound safranal, it contributes significantly to the characteristic bitter taste of saffron. The mode of action of picrocrocin involves its enzymatic breakdown during the drying process of saffron stigmas, which leads to the formation of safranal through hydrolysis. This process is critical to the development of the saffron aroma profile, with picrocrocin playing a crucial intermediary role. Picrocrocin's primary applications include its utilization in culinary and fragrance industries, where it imparts the desired bitterness and aroma distinctive of saffron. Additionally, it serves as an important quality marker in saffron standardization and authentication studies. Scientific interest in picrocrocin has also increased due to its potential biological activities, warranting further exploration of its pharmacological properties.

Crocin II is a hydrophilic carotenoid that is a mono-glycosyl polyene ester of crocetin, in which D-gentiobiose occurs as the carbohydrate residue.  A number of studies clearly highlight the role of crocin in preventing, treating or alleviating various health related conditions. Most in vivo studies were carried out on the effects of crocin against CNS and cardiovascular related diseases; however research projects on other organs including the liver and kidney have also been undertaken. These findings have not yet been verified by clinical trials on humans.

Rubixanthin is a natural red carotenoid pigment, which is derived primarily from plant sources such as rose hips and certain types of flowers and fruits. It is a member of the xanthophyll family of carotenoids, compounds renowned for their vibrant colors and antioxidant properties. The mode of action of Rubixanthin primarily involves its ability to absorb light in specific wavelengths, contributing to its bright red hue. It also exhibits antioxidant activity by scavenging free radicals, thereby protecting cellular structures from oxidative damage. This antioxidative potential is attributed to its conjugated double-bond structure, which is common among carotenoids. In terms of applications, Rubixanthin is utilized for its coloring properties in the food and cosmetic industries, where it imparts a natural red to orange color to various products. Additionally, its antioxidative capacity is of interest in research areas focused on health and nutrition, with potential implications for enhancing the nutritional profile of functional foods. As the study of natural pigments evolves, Rubixanthin continues to be of interest for its roles in color enhancement and antioxidant effects.

Violaxanthin - solution in ethanol is a carotenoid compound, typically used in biochemical and physiological research. This product is derived from natural sources, such as plants and algae, where violaxanthin plays a crucial role in the xanthophyll cycle, contributing to thermal energy dissipation and photoprotection in photosynthetic organisms. The mode of action involves the reversible conversion of violaxanthin to other xanthophylls such as antheraxanthin and zeaxanthin, depending on light conditions, to regulate energy flux and protect against photooxidative damage. This solution's primary use is in the study of plant biology and photosynthesis, allowing scientists to investigate the mechanisms of light harvesting and energy dissipation in chloroplasts. Additionally, it finds applications in the analysis of carotenoid-mediated antioxidant activities and their effects on plant stress responses. By using this solution, researchers can gain insights into the complex processes that enable plants to maintain homeostasis under varying environmental conditions. Such studies are pivotal for advancing our understanding of plant resilience and may contribute to developments in agricultural science and biotechnology.

Lycopene analytical standard provided with UV assay for quantitative titration.