Low-dose supplementation with lycopene or beta-carotene does not enhance cell-mediated immunity in healthy free-living elderly humans.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the effects of supplementation with the carotenoids, beta-carotene or lycopene, at levels achievable within a diet rich in fruit and vegetables, on immune function in a group of free-living healthy elderly.


METHODS
A double-blind randomized placebo-controlled trial. T cell subsets and the expression of functionally associated cell surface molecules, quantified by flow cytometry, and lectin-stimulated lymphocyte proliferation, were compared before and following the treatment period.


METHODS
Fifty-eight subjects aged over 65 y were recruited; 52 were included in the final analysis.


METHODS
Participants received one placebo, one lycopene (13.3 mg) or one beta-carotene (8.2 mg) capsule daily for 12 weeks.


RESULTS
No significant differences were observed in any of the parameters examined following either lycopene or beta-carotene supplementation.


CONCLUSIONS
In well-nourished, free-living, healthy elderly individuals, supplementation with relatively low levels of beta-carotene or lycopene is not associated with either a beneficial or detrimental effects on several aspects of cell-mediated immunity.
Corridan
B M
BM
Nutritional Sciences, Department of Food Science and Technology, University College, Cork, Ireland.
O'Donoghue
M
M
Hughes
D A
DA
Morrissey
P A
PA
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002338:Carotenoids / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000097:blood / Q000276:immunology; D002851:Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; D016207:Cytokines / Q000096:biosynthesis; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D005227:Fatty Acids / Q000097:blood; D005260:Female; D005434:Flow Cytometry; D005638:Fruit / Q000737:chemistry; D006801:Humans; D007111:Immunity, Cellular / Q000187:drug effects*; D000077276:Lycopene; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation / Q000187:drug effects; D018655:Lymphocyte Count; D016131:Lymphocyte Subsets / Q000187:drug effects; D008297:Male; D014675:Vegetables / Q000737:chemistry; D019207:beta Carotene / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000097:blood / Q000276:immunology
D016207:Cytokines; D005227:Fatty Acids; D019207:beta Carotene; D002338:Carotenoids; D000077276:Lycopene