Scientists from the University of Seville in Spain and the University of Kent in the U.K. have made a discovery that could help people live longer and stay healthier.
They found that a natural substance called phytoene, which is found in many fruits and vegetables, can extend life and may protect against Alzheimer’s disease.
Phytoene is a kind of carotenoid—a pigment that gives fruits and vegetables their bright colors. It’s found in foods like tomatoes, carrots, apricots, red peppers, oranges, mandarins, and passion fruit. Carotenoids are already known for being good for your health, and this new study adds more evidence of their benefits.
The researchers tested phytoene on a small worm called Caenorhabditis elegans, which is commonly used in medical research. Even though it’s tiny, this worm has helped scientists make big discoveries, including research that has won Nobel Prizes.
When the worms were given phytoene, their lifespans increased by 10% to nearly 19%. Even more exciting, phytoene reduced damage caused by amyloid plaques by 30% to 40%. These plaques are clumps of protein that are strongly linked to Alzheimer’s disease, a condition that causes memory loss and confusion.
The study was led by Ángeles Morón Ortiz as part of her PhD work and published in the journal Antioxidants. It tested both pure phytoene and extracts from microalgae that are rich in phytoene. The results were very promising.
Now, the research team is trying to get more funding to find out exactly how phytoene works to protect the body and brain. Their long-term goal is to use this compound to help prevent diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Professor Antonio Jesús Meléndez Martínez, who leads the research team in Seville, has been studying phytoene for over 15 years. His team is working on finding ways to produce healthy food in a more sustainable way. They want to learn how natural compounds like phytoene can be used not just in food, but also in farming and cosmetics.
One interesting thing about phytoene is that the body absorbs it easily. It can be found in different parts of the body, including the skin. This means it might even help protect the skin from harmful UV rays.
The team believes that this research could lead to new ways to stay healthy and possibly even prevent serious diseases like Alzheimer’s. With more studies, phytoene might one day be used in supplements or foods to help people live longer and healthier lives.
If you care about Alzheimer’s, please read studies about Scientists find the root cause of Alzheimer’s disease and findings of Alzheimer’s might not be primarily a brain disease. A new theory suggests it’s an autoimmune condition.
For more about Alzheimer’s disease, please read studies about These places in U.S. have the most cases of Alzheimer’s disease and findings of Scientists confirm the link between COVID-19 and Alzheimer’s disease.
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