Plasma response to Dunaliella bardawil administration

Understanding the transport mechanisms of carotenoids is critical to maximizing their therapeutic potential. Dunaliella bardawil is unique in its production of high levels of the 9-cis isomer under stress conditions.

Objective

To map the comparative pharmacokinetics of 9-cis versus all-trans beta-carotene specifically when delivered in a whole-algae matrix versus purified synthetic forms.

Results Overview

• Initial Spike: Both groups showed an initial spike in plasma all-trans beta-carotene.
• Secondary Sustain: Only the Dunaliella bardawil group exhibited a secondary, prolonged elevation of 9-cis beta-carotene, peaking at 48 hours post-ingestion.
• Lipoprotein Distribution: The 9-cis isomer was found to preferentially partition into HDL particles during the late fasting phase, suggesting an alternative transport mechanism to peripheral tissues compared to the LDL-dominant transport of all-trans isomers.

For full access to the methods and datasets, see the attached supplementary file.