Fucoxanthin as a Geroprotector: Experimental Data on Mice

Introduction . Th e search for compounds capable of modulating key mechanisms of aging remains one of the pressing challenges of modern medicine. Fucoxanthin, a carotenoid derived from brown algae, possesses antioxidant and anti-infl ammatory properties; however, its eff ects on complex biomarkers of aging in mammals remain insuffi ciently studied.

Objective is to comprehensively evaluate the eff ects of long-term oral administration of fucoxanthin on biomarkers of aging, including pro-infl ammatory cytokines, advanced glycation end products, and metabolic parameters in aging mice.

Materials and methods . Th e study included 30 male ICR/CD1 mice divided into three groups: 1) mature controls (10 months), 2) aged controls (18 months), and 3) aged mice receiving fucoxanthin (18 months) at a dose of 20 mg/kg body weight per day for 8 months. Serum levels of IL-6, TNF-α, MCP-1, and AGEs, as well as biochemical parameters, were assessed.

Results . In aged control mice, all measured markers were signifi cantly higher than in mature controls. Fucoxanthin administration contributed to a reduction in IL-6, TNF-α, MCP-1, and AGEs levels, along with an improvement in the metabolic profi le (decreased glucose, triglycerides, ALT and AST activities, and increased HDL cholesterol and albumin).

Conclusion . Th e obtained results demonstrate a comprehensive geroprotective eff ect of fucoxanthin, refl ected in suppression of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype, reduction of carbonyl stress, and improvement of metabolic status. Th ese fi ndings support the potential of fucoxanthin as a promising geroprotector for further research in the prevention of age-associated diseases.

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