Zeaxanthin | CAS 144-68-3 | Carotenoid Xanthophyll (Research Use Only) | Knowlux

Product Description

Zeaxanthin, CAS 144-68-3, is a naturally occurring or fermentation-derived carotenoid xanthophyll supplied by Knowlux for laboratory research use. It is a dihydroxy derivative of beta-carotene and one of the two primary xanthophylls concentrated in the human macula, alongside lutein. The molecular formula is C40H56O2 and the molecular weight is 568.87 g/mol. Each lot is released with a lot-specific COA, MSDS and full analytical traceability.

Source and stereoisomeric form clarification: CAS 144-68-3 describes the zeaxanthin molecule itself, but commercial material originates from distinct production routes with different stereoisomeric profiles. Natural extraction from marigold (Tagetes erecta) yields predominantly the (3R,3'R) isomer. Fermentation-derived zeaxanthin (e.g., from Yarrowia lipolytica) is also available and has received FDA GRAS status (GRN 1300, closed May 2026) for specific food applications. Synthetic routes may yield different isomeric mixtures. Knowlux declares the source and isomeric profile on each COA; buyers should confirm whether their research requires a specific stereoisomer or origin. Commercial listings describe zeaxanthin as an eye health supplement or cosmetic ingredient; those designations attach to food and supplement markets and do not apply to, and are not represented by, this research-grade lot.

Product Parameters

Product Details

1. Overview

Zeaxanthin is a C40 xanthophyll carotenoid characterized by hydroxyl groups on each ionone ring. It is biosynthesized in plants and certain microorganisms and is best known for its accumulation in the macula lutea of the human retina, where it is thought to filter blue light and quench reactive oxygen species. In research settings, zeaxanthin is studied as a lipophilic antioxidant, a model compound for carotenoid isomerization, and a component of macular pigment research models. Knowlux supplies zeaxanthin as a research-grade material for laboratory and analytical use; this supply is not intended for human consumption and does not constitute a finished food, supplement, or cosmetic product.

2. Research Context (Not a Therapeutic Claim)

Published literature describes zeaxanthin as a lipophilic xanthophyll studied in in vitro and in vivo research models. Its conjugated polyene system enables singlet oxygen quenching and free radical scavenging, and its hydroxyl groups allow it to orient within lipid bilayers and interact with membrane components. Research has investigated its role in macular pigment density, blue light filtration, and oxidative stress markers in retinal model systems. The stereoisomeric composition ((3R,3'R) vs. meso or other forms) is a critical variable in research design, as these factors influence bioavailability and biological activity in model systems. These descriptions are derived from published research and are provided for scientific reference only. Knowlux makes no claims regarding the efficacy, safety, or suitability of this product for any human application. Promotion of zeaxanthin for eye health, macular protection, anti-aging, or any health benefit is not supported by Knowlux and is inconsistent with research-use-only supply.

3. Quality Control

4. Applications

• Reference standard for xanthophyll carotenoid analytical method development

• In vitro antioxidant capacity and singlet oxygen quenching assays

• Macular pigment and retinal cell research models

• Carotenoid isomerization and degradation pathway studies

• Pigmentation and carotenoid biosynthesis research models

• LC-MS and biochemical assay calibrators

5. Packaging, Storage & Shipping

Zeaxanthin is sensitive to light, heat, and oxygen. Primary containment: amber glass vial or high-barrier aluminium pouch under nitrogen headspace, sealed with tamper-evident closure. Secondary packaging: light-protected carton with desiccant. Cold-chain shipping with validated gel packs and temperature logger; dry ice for -20 C shipments. COA, MSDS, packing list and certificate of origin issued with each shipment.

6. Documentation Support

Per lot: COA, MSDS, certificate of origin, residual solvent statement, heavy metal statement, isomeric profile report. Specification summaries and audit support available on a project basis.

About Knowlux

Knowlux Biotechnology is a GMP-oriented manufacturer and supplier of peptides, APIs and fine-chemical research compounds, operating from Hubei, China. We serve research groups, CDMOs and distributors in more than 40 countries, and support contract synthesis, custom packaging and technical documentation requests.

Compliance Statement

This product is supplied for laboratory research use only. It is not for human or animal administration, not for diagnostic or therapeutic use, not for retail sale, and not for personal use. Zeaxanthin produced via fermentation using Yarrowia lipolytica has received GRAS status in the United States for specific food applications (GRN 1300, closed May 2026). Zeaxanthin is also authorised as a food colour (E 161h) and has been assessed as a novel food in the European Union. Those regulatory positions attach to compliant food- and supplement-grade supply chains and do not apply to, and are not represented by, this research-grade lot. Research context statements are for scientific reference only and do not constitute medical advice, promotional claims, or dosing guidance.