Lycopene Background

Lycopene is a naturally occurring carotenoid pigment found in various fruits and vegetables, with tomatoes being the most significant dietary source[1].

Its discovery dates back to 1910 when it was first isolated from tomatoes, but its importance in human health wasn't fully recognized until the late 20th century[1].

Lycopene plays dual roles in both plants and humans as a free-radical scavenger, providing antioxidant protection in photosystem events and improving attraction for seed dissemination in plants[1].

In humans, lycopene acts by scavenging singlet oxygen and peroxy radicals, deactivating excited molecules, and serving as a DNA chain-breaking agent[1].

Lycopene Systemic Applications

Lycopene demonstrates remarkable versatility in systemic applications, ranging from cancer prevention to cardiovascular health[2].

It has been found effective in ameliorating cancer insurgences, diabetes mellitus, cardiac complications, and oxidative stress-mediated malfunctions[2].

Lycopene can improve ventricular remodeling, vascular and endothelial function, and reduce atherosclerotic plaque size and arterial stiffness[2].

Its anti-inflammatory properties make it useful in treating various inflammatory processes, including chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD)[5].

Lycopene for Brain and Cognition

Lycopene has shown promising effects on cognitive function, particularly as a natural neuroprotective agent[2].

Studies suggest that this carotenoid contributes to cognitive longevity and may be beneficial in treating several neuronal diseases, including cerebral ischemia, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, subarachnoid hemorrhage, epilepsy, Huntington's disease, and depression[2].

Research indicates that lycopene can improve cognitive functions by protecting against oxidative damage of mitochondrial enzymes and preventing apoptosis in Alzheimer's disease[5].

Lycopene for Eye and Vision

Lycopene has demonstrated significant benefits for eye health, particularly in preventing and managing Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)[3].

It helps shield the retina from oxidative stress and inflammation, both known risk factors in the progression of AMD[3].

Lycopene's anti-angiogenic activity has been shown to reduce the proliferation of endothelial cells, their migration, and the formation of new capillaries in vitro, which is particularly relevant for wet AMD[6].

Studies have revealed an inverse correlation between plasma levels of carotenoids, especially lycopene, and the presence of AMD, suggesting its protective role in ocular health[6].

Relevant quotes:

"Lycopene is a kind of natural carotenoid that could achieve antioxidant, anti-cancer, lipid-lowering and immune-improving effects." - Frontiers in Veterinary Science[4]

"Specifically, lycopene, thanks to its angiogenic activity, was found to be the only carotenoid that has been shown in different studies to protect ocular health, helping to reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration." - Licofarma[6]

Relevant NCBI article quotes:

"Lycopene has been found to be efficient in ameliorating cancer insurgences, diabetes mellitus, cardiac complications, oxidative stress-mediated malfunctions." - From "Lycopene as a Natural Antioxidant Used to Prevent Human Health Disorders" (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7464847/)

"Lycopene has been established as an important molecule for inhibition of breast cancer cell proliferation by attenuating the insulin-like growth..." - From "Lycopene: Food Sources, Biological Activities, and Human Health Benefits" (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8626194/)

Functions supported or stimulated:

1. Antioxidant activity[1][2][4]

2. Anti-inflammatory effects[2][5]

3. Neuroprotection[2][5]

4. Anti-angiogenic activity[6]

5. Immune system modulation[4]

Related benefits:

1. Cancer prevention and treatment[2][4]

2. Cardiovascular health improvement[2]

3. Cognitive function enhancement[2][5]

4. Eye health protection, particularly against AMD[3][6]

5. Potential treatment for neurodegenerative diseases[2][5]

Source Information:

Botanical name: Solanum lycopersicum (tomato)[1]

Typical content range: 85% of dietary lycopene comes from tomatoes or tomato-based products[4]

Content in fresh tomatoes: 8.8-42 mg/kg fresh weight[1]

Common names:

1. Tomato

2. Red tomato

3. Love apple[1]

Citations:

[1] https://journals.ashs.org/downloadpdf/view/journals/hortsci/41/5/article-p1135.pdf

[2] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7464847/

[3] https://vitreavision.com/blogs/news/lycopene-a-potent-antioxidant-for-robust-eye-health

[4] https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2024.1364589/full

[5] https://biomedpharmajournal.org/vol10no4/a-systematic-review-on-lycopene-and-its-beneficial-effects/

[6] https://www.licofarma.com/en/lycopene-eyes-health

[7] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8626194/

[8] https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-554/lycopene