Exploring the Role of Carotenoids in Human Health: Therapeutic Applications and Mechanistic Insights

Tetraterpene pigments, known as carotenoids, are found in several organisms, including some types of algae, plants, mammals, and some species of archaea and fungi. Until 2018, 850 naturally occurring carotenoids had been reported. Photosynthetic bacteria, fungi, algae, and plants can make carotenoids. Levels of carotenoids in the human body have been strongly associated with preventing and treating numerous diseases because of their protective characteristics. A substantial body of research has been amassed about the possible health benefits of carotenoids, which have long been known for their antioxidant capabilities. Due to their antioxidant properties, the primary carotenoids such as carotene, lycopene, lutein, zeaxanthin, crocin (crocetin), and curcumin are responsible for the positive health benefits of carotenoid-rich vegetables and fruits and for lowering the risk of certain diseases. Neurodegenerative processes might be stopped or delayed by strategies, such as consuming carotenoid-rich food that disrupts apoptotic pathways. Also, it explores the novelty of green technology separation techniques for isolating carotenoids. This review briefly discusses the chemistry, classification, biological functions, potential mechanisms, and environmental and commercial outcomes of some important carotenoids used to treat various disorders.