Pharmacological effects and preventive therapeutic potential of phytochemicals

Abstract

Currently, the development of functional foods that take advantage of the bio-regulatory effects of foods has been active. The phytochemicals, which are derived from plants, play an important role as a factor in the functionality of such foods. Phytochemicals are substances produced by plants to protect themselves from ultraviolet rays, harmful substances, pests, and foreign enemies, and are a general term for chemical substances contained in plants. With the development of analytical techniques, the functionality of various phytochemicals and their mechanisms of action are becoming clearer. Since phytochemicals cannot be produced in the human body, they must be supplemented from foods and supplements. Therefore, the phytochemicals should be taken for the purpose of health maintenance by understanding which phytochemicals should be taken for what purpose. We have been engaged in research on the effects of carotenoids and polyphenols, which are classified as phytochemicals, on the central nervous system, such as the brain and eyes, as well as their molecular mechanisms. In this presentation, we will focus on the pharmacological effects of carotenoids such as astaxanthin and crocetin, and discuss their anti-aging and preventive effects on central nervous system diseases.