Abstract
An hypothesis is presented that is opposed to the conventional viewpoint that beta-carotene is an in vivo free-radical scavenger. It is suggested that there are biochemical reasons why beta-carotene, other carotenoids, and especially their metabolites may be harmful to mammalian systems. Finally, the hypothesis that the macular pigment carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin, are free-radical scavengers is challenged.
Publication types
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Antioxidants*
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Carotenoids / metabolism*
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Free Radical Scavengers*
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Humans
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Lutein / metabolism
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Mammals
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Models, Biological
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Retina / physiology
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Xanthophylls
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Zeaxanthins
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beta Carotene / analogs & derivatives
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beta Carotene / metabolism
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beta Carotene / physiology*
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beta Carotene / toxicity*
Substances
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Antioxidants
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Free Radical Scavengers
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Xanthophylls
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Zeaxanthins
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beta Carotene
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Carotenoids
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Lutein