Tissue Distribution of Astaxanthin Formulation in Rats

Background: Nano size emulsion of astaxanthin has been successfully developed. However, its bioavailability enhancement benefit in form of concentration absorbed and tissue distribution has not been elucidated yet. Objective: This study investigated the relationship between globule size and tissue distribution of different types of astaxanthin formulation namely macro, nano and oil solution. Methods: Twenty male rats were divided into four groups and orally fed with the formulations for seven days. The first, second, and third group of rats were fed with nano emulsion, macro emulsion and oil solution, respectively. The final group was used as negative control. The lungs, spleen, kidney, heart and liver were isolated for tissue distribution study. Results: It was found that the nano size emulsion of astaxanthin contained the highest distribution in all organs studied. Meanwhile, the highest concentration of astaxanthin was found in the spleen for each type of formulation. Conclusion: Nano sized emulsion improved tissue distribution and enhanced the bioavailability of astaxanthin.