Lycopenes and related compounds

Abstract

Lycopene, a carotene with bright red pigment in ripe red tomatoes, is routinely consumed by humans today. The foods rich in lycopene are usually tomato products, such as, catsup, tomato sources, tomato juice, etc., and some other fruit, such as watermelon. Lycopene can be detected in human circulation and in tissues in both all-trans and cis forms. As a lipophilic antioxidant, it has been demonstrated as one of the most efficient singlet-oxygen-quenchers. Human studies linked intakes of tomato and lycopene and serum or plasma lycopene concentrations to the subsequent development of cancers, reduction of degenerative disease, and reduced risks of cardiovascular disease.