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Lutein (carotenoid) crystals

Image Number: 860502-17

Caption:

Lutein (carotenoid) crystals. Lutein is a carotenoid that is a fat-soluble (lipophilic) xanthophyll. It is an oxidized hydroxy derivative of beta-carotene that is a strong antioxidant and is the primary carotenoid pigment present in the central area of the eye retina called the macula. Carotenoids are organic pigments naturally occurring in plants and some other photosynthetic organisms like algae, some types of fungus and some bacteria. Carotenoids that have some oxidized double bonds are known as xanthophylls; the un-oxidized carotenoids are known as carotenes. In photosynthetic organisms, carotenoids play a vital role in the photosynthesis. In non-photosynthetic organisms, carotenoids have been linked to oxidation preventing mechanisms. Probably the most well known carotenoid is the one that gives this group its name, carotene, found in carrots and responsible for their bright orange color. The pink color of flamingos and salmon, and the red coloring of lobsters are also caused by carotenoids.

Keywords:

| 860502-17.tif 12.01.04 antioxidant anti-oxidant ¤-carotene beta-carotene carotene carotenes carotenoid carotenoids crystal crystals eye retina lutein macula organic pigment photosynthesis photosynthetic pigment xanthophyll LM |

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