PubMed Studies
147
PubChem CID
About
Alpha-carotene is a provitamin A carotenoid found in carrots and pumpkin. Converted to Vitamin A in the body. Has independent antioxidant and anti-cancer properties.
How it works (mechanism of action)
Concentrated in lipid-rich tissues providing singlet oxygen quenching and free radical scavenging within lipid membranes. In humans, serve as provitamin A precursors or direct modulators of gene expression via PPAR and RXR receptors.
👥 Safety by Population
🚫 Contraindications & Warnings
Carotenodermia at very high doses (harmless skin yellowing). Smokers: beta-carotene supplements increase lung cancer risk — same caution applies.