The Anti-Atherogenic Effects of Lycopene

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are one of the leading causes of death in world. Many epidemiological studies have concluded that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables reduces the incidence of heart disease in humans (Khachik et al., 2002). Carotenoids are important photochemical those are considered to be responsible for the health protective effects of fruits and vegetables (Omoni & Aluko, 2005). The carotenoids are a group of over 600 fat soluble pigments that are responsible for the natural yellow, orange, and red colors of fruits and vegetables (Giovannucci, 2002). Lycopene is one of such carotenoids, and is the pigment principally responsible for the distinctive red color of ripe tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) and tomato products (Shi, 2000). Several epidemiological studies have suggested that a high consumption of tomatoes and tomato products containing lycopene may protect against CVD (Wu et al., 2003). These epidemiological leads have stimulated a number of animal model studies designed to test this hypothesis and to establish the beneficial effects of lycopene. Evidence from these studies suggests that lycopene has anti-atherogenic effects both in vitro and in vivo. The focus of this chapter is the anti-atherogenic effects of lycopene. This chapter will also highlight the chemical composition of lycopene, its sources and function, as well as potential impact an human health.