Effects Of Astaxanthin Supplementation Research Articles

Effects of Astaxanthin Supplementation on Fatigue, Motor Function and Cognition: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Dietary astaxanthin supplementation has been demonstrated to have many beneficial and health-promoting effects. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to assess the effect of astaxanthin supplementation on fatigue, cognition, and exercise efficiency. A total of 11 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with 346 healthy participants were included. The random effects model and pooled standardized mean difference (SMDs) were used according to Hedge's g for the meta-analysis, and a meta-regression was also conducted. The results of the two existing studies showed a positive trend for astaxanthin in subjective fatigue relief. The effects of astaxanthin supplementation for 8-12 weeks on cognitive accuracy were marginally significant (SMD: .12; 95% CI: -.02-.26) and on reaction time was not significant (SMD: -.08; 95% CI: -.26 to .10). Remarkably, astaxanthin supplementation combined with regular training could enhance the fat oxidation (SMD: 2.56; 95% CI: 1.24-3.89), and significantly improve the physical performance (SMD: .62; 95% CI: .17-1.06). The subgroup analysis further showed significantly greater benefits when performing the aerobic exercises performance (SMD: .45; 95% CI: .13-.76), when the dose was ≥ 20mg (SMD: .37; 95% CI: .11-.63), and when the supplementation duration was > 12 weeks (SMD: .66; 95% CI: .13-.63). We conclude that astaxanthin supplementation could significantly enhance aerobic exercise efficiency, especially at higher doses and for longer durations. Further studies based on large sample sizes are imperatively warranted.

Effect of Astaxanthin Supplementation in Preventing Anemia in Head and Neck Cancer Patients Receiving Cisplatin Chemotherapy

The incidence of anemia due to reactive oxygen species (ROS) in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) can be caused by a side effect of cisplatin chemotherapy, namely myelosuppression. In the presence of ROS, external antioxidants are needed, including astaxanthin as an antioxidant to neutralize and fight ROS in preventing anemia. This study aims to prove and analyze the antioxidant effect of astaxanthin in preventing anemia in HNC patients due to cisplatin chemotherapy for 3 weeks. The study design was a randomized controlled trial pre-post test design, involving 42 research subjects who were randomly divided into two groups, then 3 cc of blood was taken I to check the hemoglobin level and the number of erythrocytes. The treatment group was given astaxanthin 2x4 mg and the control group was given a combination of vitamin C 1x500 mg and vitamin E 1x250 IU for 3 weeks then 3 cc of blood was taken II to check hemoglobin levels and erythrocyte counts. The independent variable is intake of astaxanthin, the dependent variable is hemoglobin level and the number of erythrocytes and the confounding variables are age, sex, type of HNC, stage of HNC, ECOG and BMI. Data analysis was performed by the Descriptive test, Levene test, Shapiro Wilks, Wilcoxon test, and Mann-Whitney test. The significance of the hypothesis test was obtained with p<0.05. The 42 research subjects met the inclusion criteria, most aged between 41-50 years, male and female ratio 2:1, The most HNC were Nasopharyngeal Cancer, the most HNC stage was stage IV, the most HNC performance status was ECOG I and the most HNC patients had normal BMI. There was a significant difference in hemoglobin levels p=0.012 (p<0.05) and the number of erythrocytes, p=0.04 (p<0.05) between the treatment and control groups. There was a significant difference in hemoglobin levels after therapy in the treatment and control groups p=0.012 (p<0.05) and the number of erythrocytes p=0.04 (p<0.05) between the treatment and control groups. Astaxanthin can prevent anemia in the form of decreased hemoglobin levels and the number of erythrocytes in HNC patients who receive cisplatin chemotherapy.Keywords: astaxanthin, anemia, HNC, cisplatin, ROS.

Effects of Astaxanthin supplementation on selected metabolic parameters, anthropometric indices, Sirtuin1 and TNF-α levels in patients with coronary artery disease: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Atherosclerosis can develop as a result of an increase in oxidative stress and concurrently rising levels of inflammation. Astaxanthin (AX), a red fat-soluble pigment classified as a xanthophyll, may be able to prevent the vascular damage induced by free radicals and the activation of inflammatory signaling pathways. The objective of the current study is to assess the effects of AX supplementation on cardiometabolic risk factors in individuals with coronary artery disease (CAD). This randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted among 50 CAD patients. Participants were randomly allocated into two groups to intake either AX supplements (12 mg/day) or placebo for 8 weeks. Lipid profile, glycemic parameters, anthropometric indices, body composition, Siruin1 and TNF-α levels were measured at baseline and after 8 weeks. Body composition, glycemic indices, serum levels of TNF-α, Sirtuin1 did not differ substantially between the AX and placebo groups (p > 0.05). The data of AX group showed significant reduction in total cholesterol (-14.95 ± 33.57 mg/dl, p < 0.05) and LDL-C (-14.64 ± 28.27 mg/dl, p < 0.05). However, TG and HDL-C levels could not be affected through AX supplementation. Our results suggest that AX supplementation play a beneficial role in reducing some components of lipid profile levels. However, further clinical investigations in CAD patients are required to obtain more conclusive findings. www.Irct.ir., identifier IRCT20201227049857N1.

The effects of astaxanthin supplementation on expression of microRNAs involved in cardiovascular diseases: a systematic review of current evidence

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have biological roles in controlling oxidative stress. Astaxanthin (AST) may regulate circulating miRNAs in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs); therefore, our study aimed to evaluate the effect of AST on miRNA involved in CVDs. A systematic literature search from inception to August 2022 resulted in 80 preliminary studies; 15 articles were included. In vitro studies indicated that AST up-regulated miRNAs compromised miR-138, miR-7, miR-29a-3p, and miR-200a, while down-regulated miR-382-5p, miR-31-5p, and miR-21. In vivo articles revealed that AST increased the expression of miR-124, miR-7, miR-29a-3p, and miR-200a but decreased miR-21 and miR-31-5p and the only clinical study showed a drop in miR-146a. The findings indicate that AST regulated different pathways of miRNAs implicated in various conditions. Therefore AST as a new therapeutic strategy could be essential in preventing and controlling CVDs. However, more studies, including clinical trials, are needed to determine the influence of AST on miRNAs associated with CVDs.

Effects of astaxanthin supplementation in fertilization medium and/or culture medium on the fertilization and development of mouse oocytes.

Objective We investigated the effect of supplementing fertilization medium and/or culture medium with astaxanthin (AST) on the two phases of in vitro fertilization: gamete fertilization and embryo development.Methods Mouse cumulus-oocyte complexes were divided into four groups with 5 µM AST added to the fertilization medium (group 3, n=300), culture medium (group 2, n=300), or both media (group 4, n=290). No AST was added to the control group (group 1, n=300).ResultsThe fertilization rate was significantly higher (p<0.001) in the groups using AST supplemented fertilization medium (group 3, 79.0%; group 4, 81.4%) than those without AST (group 1, 56.3%; group 2, 52.3%). The blastocyst rate calculated from the two-cell stage was significantly lower (p<0.001) in the groups using AST-supplemented embryo culture medium (group 2, 58.0%; group 4, 62.3%) than in those without AST (group 1, 82.8%; group 3, 79.8%). The blastocyst rate calculated from the number of inseminated oocytes was highest in group 3 (189/300, 63.0%) and lowest in group 2 (91/300, 30.3%) with statistical significance compared to other groups (p<0.001). There were significantly higher numbers of cells in the inner cell mass and trophectoderm, as well as significantly higher total blastocyst cell counts, in group 3 than in the control group.ConclusionAn increased blastocyst formation rate and high-quality blastocysts were found only in the fertilization medium that had been supplemented with AST. In contrast, AST supplementation of the embryo culture medium was found to impair embryo development.

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of astaxanthin supplementation on the expression ofmiR-146a and miR-126 in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

The pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is associated with chronic oxidative stress and inflammation. It is well known that the expression of some miRNAs such as miRNA-146a is upregulated in diabetic and hyperglycaemic patients, whereas circulating miRNA-126 is reduced. Therefore, we aimed to determine the effects of astaxanthin (AST) supplementation on the circulating malondialdehyde (MDA) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) levels, and the expression of miR-146a and miR-126 in patients with T2DM. This randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted in 44 patients with T2DM randomly receiving 8mg/d of oral AST (n=22) or placebo (n=22) for 8weeks. We observed that AST supplementation could decrease plasma levels of MDA and IL-6 (P<.05) and decrease the expression level of miR-146a over time (fold change: -1/388) (P<.05). AST supplementation might be beneficial for improving circulating MDA and IL-6 and the down-regulation of miR-146a. However, future investigations are suggested to confirm these results.

126 Effect of astaxanthin supplementation on invitro embryo development and immune response of dairy cows

Astaxanthin is a carotenoid antioxidant reported to have beneficial effects on animals, including immune response and reproductive function. This study aimed to determine the effect of daily supplementation of dairy cows with astaxanthin on leukocyte population and oocyte developmental potential in summer. Lactating Holstein cows (n=45) from a compost barn in Paraná, Brazil, received 0 (control), 0.25 (low AST), or 0.5 (high AST) mg/kg per day of astaxanthin for 75 days in the summer (January to March 2020). Groups were homogeneous according to parity, days in milk, and milk yield. Blood cell count (white blood cells, lymphocyte, neutrophil, monocyte, basophil, and eosinophil) was performed on sodium citrate-treated blood samples collected every 14 days. Ovum pickup (OPU) was then conducted three times at a 20-day interval and oocytes underwent IVF to assess their developmental competence. Data were tested for normality of residues (Shapiro-Wilk test) and homogeneity of variances (F max test), and square root-transformed when premises for ANOVA were not met. One-way ANOVA (embryo development data; effect of astaxanthin) or two-way repeated-measures ANOVA (oocyte quality, and leukogram data; effect of astaxanthin, time, and interaction) followed by Tukey’s multiple comparisons test were performed using GraphPad Prism vs.7.0 (GraphPad Inc.). During the experimental period, animals were exposed to an average air temperature of 29.40±0.20°C and relative humidity of 58.00±0.80%. Physiological parameters were as follows: heart rate of 53.55±0.34 beats/min, respiratory rate of 48.39±0.31 breaths/min, body surface temperature of 32.83±0.11°C, and rectal temperature of 38.77±0.02°C. A higher white blood cell count was observed for the low AST group compared with control (P=0.0203) and high AST (P=0.0107) groups after 56 days of supplementation. For lymphocyte quantification, an effect of astaxanthin (P=0.0440) and astaxanthin×time of supplementation interaction (P=0.0239) were observed. The lower dose of astaxanthin caused an increase in lymphocyte number, which could be detected after 42 days of astaxanthin supplementation (P ≤ 0.05). No significant differences were detected for other leukocyte types. No effect of astaxanthin was observed on total number of oocytes recovered per cow except for the first OPU, in which more oocytes were retrieved from cows supplemented with 0.5 mg/kg per day of astaxanthin (9.92±1.95) compared with control (3.58±0.73; P=0.0179) and low AST (4.23±1.18; P=0.0358) groups. In addition, more viable oocytes (grades 1, 2, or 3 according to cytoplasm homogeneity and cumulus cells layers) were obtained from animals supplemented with 0.5 mg/kg per day of astaxanthin (3.17±0.39) compared with control (1.67±0.31; P=0.0050) and low AST (1.56±0.26; P=0.0022) groups. Interestingly, no differences were observed for invitro developmental potential among groups. These data suggest that a low dose of astaxanthin can affect lymphocyte mobilization, whereas a higher dose is required to improve the number of morphologically viable oocytes obtained by OPU from Holstein cows during summer.

The effect of astaxanthin supplementation on performance and fat oxidation during a 40 km cycling time trial

ObjectivesThis study aimed to investigate whether supplementation with 12 mg⋅day−1 astaxanthin for 7 days can improve exercise performance and metabolism during a 40 km cycling time trial. DesignA randomised, double-blind, crossover design was employed. MethodsTwelve recreationally trained male cyclists (VO2peak: 56.5 ± 5.5 mL⋅kg−1⋅min−1, Wmax: 346.8 ± 38.4 W) were recruited. Prior to each experimental trial, participants were supplemented with either 12 mg⋅day−1 astaxanthin or an appearance-matched placebo for 7 days (separated by 14 days of washout). On day 7 of supplementation, participants completed a 40 km cycling time trial on a cycle ergometer, with indices of exercise metabolism measured throughout. ResultsTime to complete the 40 km cycling time trial was improved by 1.2 ± 1.7% following astaxanthin supplementation, from 70.76 ± 3.93 min in the placebo condition to 69.90 ± 3.78 min in the astaxanthin condition (mean improvement = 51 ± 71 s, p = 0.029, g = 0.21). Whole-body fat oxidation rates were also greater (+0.09 ± 0.13 g⋅min−1, p = 0.044, g = 0.52), and the respiratory exchange ratio lower (−0.03 ± 0.04, p = 0.024, g = 0.60) between 39–40 km in the astaxanthin condition. ConclusionsSupplementation with 12 mg⋅day−1 astaxanthin for 7 days provided an ergogenic benefit to 40 km cycling time trial performance in recreationally trained male cyclists and enhanced whole-body fat oxidation rates in the final stages of this endurance-type performance event.

Effect of Astaxanthin supplementation on cognitive function and depression in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Background: The oral administration of Astaxanthin may decrease depression symptoms and improved cognitive function through its beneficial effects on inflammation, and oxidative stress. Objective: This study was designed to assess whether Astaxanthin supplementation can reduce symptoms of depression and increase MMSE score in patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Methods: This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was performed in 44 patients between 30 and 60 y of age with a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. Patients were randomly assigned to receive either a single capsule of 8 mg of Astaxanthin /day (n = 22) or placebo (n = 22) for 8 wk. The primary [Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), which examines depressive symptoms] and secondary (Mini-Mental State Examination (MSSE) score, which evaluates cognitive function) outcomes were assessed. Results: After 8 week of intervention, Mini-Mental State Examination baseline score was significantly improved only in the group treated with Astaxanthin, during study (p &lt; 0.01). But no significant reduction in the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was observed in both group. Conclusion: Overall, Astaxanthin supplementation of patients with diabetes for 8 weeks had beneficial effects on the MMSE score. Key words: Astaxanthin, Cognitive function Depression

Effect of Astaxanthin Supplementation on Psychophysiological Heart-Brain Axis Dynamics in Healthy Subjects

Objective: Marine microalgae is the predominant source of natural astaxanthin (NAX), a red-orange carotenoid with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Previous studies suggest that NAX supplementation improves antioxidant capacity and reduces oxidative stress, while also enhancing fat utilization, exercise endurance, cardiovascular function, and neurological parameters. The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of NAX on the psychophysiological “heart-brain-axis” while nutrition (astaxanthin) may impact physiology (cardiovascular function) and psychology (mood state) in a coordinated manner.Methods: Using a double-blind parallel design, 28 healthy subjects (male=14, female=14, age=42) were supplemented for 8 weeks with NAX (12mg/day Haematococcus pluvialis algal extract) or a matching placebo. Before and after supplementation, subjects performed a cardiovascular stress test (VO2max) and completed a validated Profile of Mood States (POMS) survey to assess global mood state (GM) and related subscales: Vigor (V), Tension (T), Depression (D), Anger (A), Fatigue (F), and Confusion (C).Results: Subjects in the NAX group showed a significant ~10% lower average heart rate at submaximal exercise intensities compared to those in the placebo group (aerobic threshold, AeT; NAX 130+17 v. PL 145+14; and anaerobic threshold, AT; NAX 139+20 v. PL 154+11, p&lt;0.05). Significant improvements were found in the NAX group for both positive mood state parameters: GM (+11%, p&lt;0.05) &amp; V (+5%, NS); and negative mood state parameters: T (-20%, NS), D (-57%, p&lt;0.05), A (-12%, NS), F (-36%, p&lt;0.05), and C (-28%, NS). Conclusions: NAX supplementation lowered average heart rate at submaximal endurance intensities (suggesting a “physical” heart benefit) and improved mood state parameters (suggesting a “mental” brain benefit). While previous studies have shown NAX supplementation to improve parameters associated with heart health (antioxidant, fat oxidation, endurance) and brain health (neuro-inflammation, cognition, antidepressant/anxiolytic), these results suggest that natural astaxanthin supplementation supports the psychophysiological “heart-brain-axis” with simultaneous improvements in both physical and mental wellness.Keywords: Antioxidant; Carotenoid; Cardiovascular; Mood State; Mental Wellness

Effects of astaxanthin supplementation and electrical stimulation on muscle atrophy and decreased oxidative capacity in soleus muscle during hindlimb unloading in rats.

The effects of a combination of the antioxidant astaxanthin (AX) and electrical stimulation (ES) on muscle mass and mitochondrial oxidative capacity were investigated in the soleus muscle of hindlimb unloaded rats. Five groups of male Sprague-Dawley rats were used; control, 1-week hindlimb unloading (HU), HU + AX, HU + ES, and HU + AX + ES. Respective rats in the AX groupsreceived 50-mg/kg AX twice daily during HU. Calf muscles of rats in the ES groups were electrically stimulated for 240s/day during HU. One-week HU decreased muscle mass along with decreased FoxO3a phosphorylation and increased ubiquitinated proteins expressions, decreased oxidative enzymatic activity accompanied with decline in PGC-1α protein expression, and increased reactive oxygen species production. However, the combination treatment could synergistically attenuate/suppress all HU-related changes, suggesting protective effects on muscle atrophy and decreased muscle oxidative capacity due to chronic neuromuscular inactivity.

Effect of Astaxanthin Supplementation on Plasma Malondialdehyde Levels and NIHSS of Stroke Patients

Effect of Astaxanthin Supplementation on Plasma Malondialdehyde Levels and NIHSS of Stroke Patients

Effects of Astaxanthin Supplementation on Oxidative Stress.

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted in six databases from 1948 to 2015 to assess the antioxidant activity of astaxanthin in humans. Nine randomized controlled trials were included in the systematic review. Results of meta-analysis revealed a borderline significant antioxidant effect of astaxanthin between the intervention and control groups, with a malondialdehyde-lowering effect for lipid peroxidation (p = 0.050). However, the data included here are insufficient. When compared with the baseline in intervention groups, the meta-analysis suggested that astaxanthin supplements significantly decreased plasma malondialdehyde {Standard mean difference (SMD) -1.32 μmol/L [95% CI -1.92, -0.72]; p < 0.0001} and isoprostane (SMD -3.10 ng/mL [95% CI -4.69, -1.51]; p < 0.0001). However, they increased superoxide dismutase (SMD 1.57 U/mL [95% CI 0.57, 2.56]; p = 0.002) and total antioxidant capacity (SMD 0.77 mmol 95% CI [0.12, 1.43]; p = 0.018). For dosage subgroup analysis, high dose (≥20 mg/day) of astaxanthin showed significant antioxidant effect (on total antioxidant capacity, isoprostane, and superoxide dismutase, p < 0.05). However, low dose (<20 mg/day) showed no significant effect (p > 0.05). Further duration subgroup analysis indicated that astaxanthin showed antioxidant effect after a 3-week intervention (p < 0.001), whereas this effect was not observed after a 12-week or 3-month intervention (on isoprostane and superoxide dismutase, p > 0.05). This review suggested that the antioxidant effect of astaxanthin on humans is unclear.

Effects of astaxanthin supplementation in healthy and obese dogs.

BackgroundSince astaxanthin (ASX) has potent anti-oxidative effects with inhibitory action of lipid peroxidation and singlet oxygen quenching activity, it is widely used as a functional food for keeping good health in human. Obesity is a risk factor for various metabolic disorders. It is characterized by low-grade chronic inflammation based on oxidative stress by excessively produced ROS. From the point of preventive medicine, natural compounds have been proposed as potential therapeutic agents in the prevention of metabolic disorder in companion animals. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of ASX supplementation in healthy and obese dogs.Materials and methodsTen healthy beagle dogs and 5 clinically obese dogs were used in this study. The healthy beagle dogs were randomly divided into 2 groups as follows: control and test groups. The test group dogs received ASX supplementation mixed with the food for 6 weeks. Five clinically obese dogs received ASX supplementation for 8 weeks. Metabolites, hormones and enzymes were measured before and after ASX supplementation.ResultsIn the healthy dog groups, after 6 weeks, plasma triglyceride (TG) and malondialdehyde concentrations and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) values significantly decreased in the test group. There was no significant difference in the control group. In clinically obese dogs, plasma TG concentration decreased after 8 weeks of ASX supplementation. Plasma alanine aminotransferase and LDH values clearly decreased in all 5 dogs and 4 dogs out of 5 dogs, respectively.ConclusionASX supplementation (0.3 mg/kg body weight/day) for 6 weeks in healthy dogs and 8 weeks in obese dogs induced the elevation of antioxidant function and of liver function by ameliorating lipid metabolism.

Effect of Astaxanthin Supplementation on Antioxidant Capacity, Blood Lactate and Blood Uric Acid Metabolism in Human Recovery Stage After Exercise

To study the effects of astaxanthin supplementation on serum antioxidant capacity, blood lactic acid and blood uric acid metabolism of human body in the 1h recovery period after acute high-intensity exercise. Sixteen male students grade 2016 from Physical Education Institution (age: 19.13±2.52, height: 179±4.21cm and weight 68.23±7.81kg) were randomly divided into two groups: group A (experimental) and B (control). Group A was given astaxanthin for 28 days at a moderate dose (12 mg/d) and placebo for 28 days at group B. 4 weeks later, all subjects underwent exercise on power bike. The antioxidant capacity and blood uric acid and the content of blood lactic acid was assayed using anti-oxidation Kit (FORD), blood lactic acid Kit (LACTIC ACID), blood uric acid Kit (URIC ACID). Results: 1) One hour after exercise, the antioxidant capacity in both A and B obviously increased without exception and the value of group A was obviously higher than B. The blood lactic acid in both groups dramatically declined and the value of group A was obviously lower than B. The blood uric acid rised in both groups and the value of A was obviously lower than B. Conclusions: Pre-supplement of astaxanthin can accelerate the recovery of antioxidant capacity, accelerate the clearance of blood lactate and delay the increase of blood uric acid in the body within 1 hour after exercise.

Influence of astaxanthin supplementation on attainment of puberty and lipid peroxidation in Sahiwal and Karan Fries (Holstein × Tharparkar) heifers during summer season

ABSTRACTPresent study was conducted on Sahiwal and Karan Fries (Holstein Friesian X Tharparkar) heifers to investigate the ameliorative effect of astaxanthin supplementation on oxidative stress and attainment of puberty during summer season. The heifers of both the breeds were equally divided into two groups i.e. control (fed as per ICAR, 2013) and treatment groups (additionally supplemented with astaxanthin @ 0.25 mg/kgBW/day/animal). THI was calculated at fortnightly interval during experimental period to assess the level of summer stress. The physiological responses were recorded and blood samples were collected at fortnightly interval from both the groups of both the breeds. The physiological response (RR, PR and RT) and plasma TBARS was (P ≤ 0.05) higher in control compared to treatment group of both the breeds. Plasma TAC and GH were significantly (P ≤ 0.05) higher, while, IGF-1 was numerically higher in treatment group of Sahiwal and Karan Fries heifers than control group. Astaxanthin supplementation alleviated the adverse effect of heat stress and improved the weight gain of heifers and hence helps in early attainment of puberty through conservation of energy, which could be otherwise used in dissipation of heat stress. The result was more pronounced in KF than Sahiwal heifers due to their exotic inheritance.

Effect of Astaxanthin Supplementation on Cardiorespiratory Function in Runners

PURPOSE: Astaxanthin (AX) is a naturally occurring carotenoid, synthesized primarily by marine microalgae, with powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Rodent studies suggest that AX supplementation improves fat utilization and exercise endurance (Ikeuchi 2003). In athletes, AX supplementation (4mg/day for 4 wks) resulted in significant improvements in power output and cycling performance (Earnest 2011), however, a higher dose of AX (20mg/day for 4 wks) in well-trained cyclists and triathletes, yielded no significant changes in total antioxidant capacity, oxidative damage, rate of fat oxidation, or time trial performance (Res 2013). The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of 8 wks of AX supplementation (12mg/day) on cardiorespiratory function during higher and lower intensity exercise in recreational runners. METHODS: Using a double-blind parallel design, 28 recreational runners (male = 14, female = 14, age = 42) were supplemented for 8 wks w/12mg/day of AX (Haematococcus pluvialis algal extract) or a placebo. Before and after the supplementation period, subjects performed a maximal running test (VO2max on treadmill) and a maximal cycling test (watts on cycle ergometer). RESULTS: There was no improvement in maximal oxygen uptake (running VO2max) or maximal power output (cycling watts) with AX supplementation. Interestingly, subjects in the AX group showed a significant ~10% lower average heart rate at submaximal running intensities (aerobic threshold, AeT; AX 130+17 v. PL 145+14; and anaerobic threshold, AT; AX 139+20 v. PL 154+11, p<0.05) compared to placebo. CONCLUSIONS: Supplementation with 12mg/day of AX for 8 wks reduced running heart rate at submaximal endurance intensities (AeT & AT), but not at higher “peak” intensities. These results suggest that AX may be a beneficial ergogenic aid for long/ultra-distance endurance athletes, but not necessarily for athletes competing in shorter higher intensity efforts. In addition, these data are also suggestive of a general “cardiotonic” effect of AX, that should be investigated in non-athletic populations including elderly subjects and those with cardiac complications including post-myocardial infarction, heart failure, statin usage, mitochondrial dysfunction, chronic fatigue, and related conditions.

Effects of astaxanthin supplementation on the sperm quality and antioxidant capacity of ram semen during liquid storage

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of astaxanthin (AST) supplementation of semen extender on the quality of ram semen during storage at 4°C for periods up to 72h. Semen samples were obtained from five Small-tail Han rams by use of artificial vagina during normal reproduction season (August to October in 2014), and diluted with glucose-egg yolk buffer supplemented with 0 (control), 0.5, 1, 2, or 4μM AST. The results showed that supplementation of the extender with 2μM and 4μM of AST increased sperm vitality and plasma membrane integrity (P<0.05), and significantly reduced malondialdehyde and reactive oxygen species levels during the 72h storage period (P<0.05). Acrosome integrity did not differ among treatments. After 72h of storage in extender, samples were analyzed with computer-assisted semen analysis. The motility of sperm in the 2μM and 4μM AST treatment groups increased significantly (P<0.05) compared to the control treatment, while curvilinear velocity, progressive velocity, and path velocity were not affected. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that supplementing semen extender with AST can improve ram semen preservation via protecting plasma membrane integrity.

Effect of Astaxanthin Supplementation on Salivary IgA, Oxidative Stress, and Inflammation in Young Soccer Players.

The physiologic stress induced by physical activity is reflected in immune system perturbations, oxidative stress, muscle injury, and inflammation. We investigated the effect of astaxanthin (Asx) supplementation on salivary IgA (sIgA) and oxidative stress status in plasma, along with changes in biochemical parameters and total/differential white cell counts. Forty trained male soccer players were randomly assigned to Asx and placebo groups. Asx group was supplemented with 4 mg of Asx. Saliva and blood samples were collected at the baseline and after 90 days of supplementation in preexercise conditions. We observed a rise of sIgA levels at rest after 90 days of Asx supplementation, which was accompanied with a decrease in prooxidant-antioxidant balance. The plasma muscle enzymes levels were reduced significantly by Asx supplementation and by regular training. The increase in neutrophil count and hs-CRP level was found only in placebo group, indicating a significant blunting of the systemic inflammatory response in the subjects taking Asx. This study indicates that Asx supplementation improves sIgA response and attenuates muscle damage, thus preventing inflammation induced by rigorous physical training. Our findings also point that Asx could show significant physiologic modulation in individuals with mucosal immunity impairment or under conditions of increased oxidative stress and inflammation.

Astaxanthin supplementation effects on adipocyte size and lipid profile in OLETF rats with hyperphagia and visceral fat accumulation

The effects of astaxanthin supplementation on visceral adipose tissue and lipid profile in an Otsuka Long Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) rat model of hyperphagia and visceral fat accumulation was investigated. At 25 weeks of age, OLETF rats were assigned randomly to an obese control (OC, n = 6) or an astaxanthin supplementation (AX, n = 6) group. Long Evans Tokushima Otsuka (LETO) rats were assigned to a lean control (LT, n = 6) group. The AX group was subjected to 6 weeks of dietary supplementation with 0.2% astaxanthin (2 g/kg diet powder chow food) ad libitum. After the 6-week experimental period, astaxanthin supplementation in obese rats promoted size reduction of visceral adipocytes, with a remarkable decrease in FFA and a significant increase in blood HDL-c concentrations. These results suggest that astaxanthin can at least partially ameliorate lipid profile and adipocyte abnormalities associated with obesity.