Oxidative stress is characterized by an imbalance between prooxidant and antioxidant
species, leading to macromolecular damage and disruption of redox signaling and cellular
control. It is a hallmark of various diseases including metabolic syndrome, chronic
fatigue syndrome, neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, inflammatory, and age-related
diseases. Several mitochondrial defects have been considered to contribute to the
development of oxidative stress and known as the major mediators of the aging process
and subsequent age-associated diseases. Thus, mitochondrial-targeted antioxidants
should prevent or slow down these processes and prolong longevity. This is the reason
why antioxidant treatments are extensively studied and newer and newer compounds with
such an effect appear. Astaxanthin, a xanthophyll carotenoid, is the most abundant
carotenoid in marine organisms and is one of the most powerful natural compounds with
remarkable antioxidant activity. Here, we summarize its antioxidant targets, effects,
and benefits in diseases and with aging.
