Merck, C6368-1MG, β-Cryptoxanthin

General description
β-Cryptoxanthin is an oxygen-containing carotenoid and is a member of the xanthophyll family. It is one of the major sources of vitamin A and is present in fruits such as oranges, tangerines and papayas. In addition, it is also found in corn, peas and some animal products such as egg yolk and butter.
Application
β-Cryptoxanthin has also been used to study its effect on the production of immunoglobulins in Peyer′s patch cells ex- vivo. It has also been used as a standard in high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC analysis).(5)
Biochem/physiol Actions
Carotenoid pigment with antioxidant functionality. In vivo conversion of β-cryptoxanthin to retinol can occur in humans. Inhibits carcinogenic induced urinary bladder cancer in experimental animal models.
β-Cryptoxanthin exhibits potential-anabolic effect on bone calcification by stimulating osteoblastic bone formation and inhibiting osteoclastic bone resorption in vitro. It acts as an antioxidant and avoids free radical damage to biomolecules such as lipids, proteins and nucleic acids. High dietary intake of β-cryptoxanthin reduces the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis and lung cancer.