In laboratory and animal models, studies have demonstrated that astaxanthin may have beneficial properties for human health, including:

Stimulation of immune system response parameters Anti-cancer effects on human cells Protection of tissues against UV light damage and photo-oxidation Anti-inflammatory properties Prevention of oxidative damage to blood LDL-cholesterol

Mera Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is committed to continuing research on possible effects of astaxanthin on our health. We plan a number of clinical trials in the near future to further investigate certain potential benefits.

• Haematococcus astaxanthin: health and nutritional applications (PDF file, 162KB)
  (Review presented at the 1st Congress of IASP, 2002)
• Astaxanthin and human health
  (Technical Report)
• Safety of astaxanthin for human health
  (Technical Report)
• Antioxidants, aging and exercise

NOTE: "U.S. Patent No. 5,527,533 was issued on June 18, 1996 in the names of M. O. M. Tso and T. T. Lak and assigned to the Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois. The patent states that it is to a method for administering astaxanthin to prevent, retard or treat eye and central nervous system diseases or injuries, such as age-related macular degeneration. It is Mera Pharmaceuticals understanding that a license under this patent has been entered into between the assignee and La Haye Laboratories. Readers are advised to inquire of these parties regarding permissible use of such a method before undertaking any such use."