Objective: To evaluate the antioxidative effect of astaxanthin extracted from Haematoccus pluvialis in mice. Methods: Fifty mice were randomly divided into five groups (high-dose [astaxanthin 4.0 mg/kg]; medium dose [astaxanthin 2.0 mg/kg]; low dose [astaxanthin 1.0 mg/kg]; model control; and blank control). The experimental substance was administered every day. Mice in the model group and the control group received an equal volume of vegetable oil for 30 days. After 30 days, blood antioxidant enzyme activity was measured in tail blood. Except for the blank control group, the other groups were exposed to 8 Gy 60Coγ irradiation. On the fourth day after irradiation, all animals were euthanized and liver tissue was tested for malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activity levels. Results : Superoxide dismutase levels in all three groups that received astaxanthin were significantly higher than in the model control group, and malondialdehyde levels in all three groups that received astaxanthin were significantly lower than in the control group. Glutathione peroxidase enzyme activity in the high-dose group was significantly higher in the model control group. Conclusion: According to the evaluation standards in Inspection and Assessment Standard for Health Food, 2003 edition, the present study demonstrated that astaxanthin extracted from Haematoccus pluvialis has antioxidative effects in a mouse model.
