A Systematic Review on Pharmacological Activity and Novel Delivery Advances of Lycopene

Introduction: Lycopene is a lipophilic red carotenoid pigment made up of eight isoprene units (octaprene) that are normally bound together head to tail, with the exception of the central part of the compound, wherein tail to tail attachment results in a symmetrical structure. Several physiological modes of action for lycopene have been investigated and documented in scientific research; the impacts on heart health, antineoplastic activity, and defence against oxidative stress are among the most extensively researched. Biological sources like Citrullus lanatus, Psidium guajava, Citrus paradisi, Rosa canina, Carica papaya, and apricot all contain significant amounts of it. Methods: Current data were collected from PubMed, Google Scholar, ACS, SciFinder, Springer Nature, Bentham Science, PLOS One, MDPI and MEDLINE. Results: Much scientific evidence suggests that eating nutritious food can help avoid chronic illnesses. Novel drug formulation of lycopene has also been researched to increase stability and solubility. Nanoparticles, liposomes, neosomes, microparticles and other novel agents have been investigated after 2015. Here in the review, we also compiled the marketed formulation. Discussion: Lycopene possesses various pharmacological aspects like anti-oxidant, anticancer, antiinflammatory, antiulcer, hepatoprotective and cardiovascular approaches. Novel formulations enhanced its potency. Conclusion: The Present review summarises pharmacological activities, delivery approaches of lycopene and marketed formulations.