Scavenger receptor class B member 1 and Fc gamma receptors (SR-B1/FcgR)

Trans-lycopene is a lipophilic carotenoid and potent antioxidant primarily found in tomatoes and red fruits. Its biological activity is mediated through its interaction with specific cell-surface proteins that facilitate its uptake and modulate downstream signaling. The primary transporters for trans-lycopene are scavenger receptor class B member 1 (SR-B1) and CD36, which are responsible for its absorption in the intestines and its distribution to peripheral tissues [4, 7]. Beyond its role in lipid transport, lycopene has been shown to exert significant anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects by downregulating the expression of Fc gamma receptors (FcgR) on the surface of immune cells and in tissues such as the prostate [10, 11]. This modulation of Fc receptors, combined with the inhibition of proinflammatory cytokines like IL-6 and the suppression of the IGF-1 signaling pathway, contributes to the reduction of oxidative stress and the inhibition of tumor cell proliferation [1, 12]. Consequently, these receptors are key targets for the therapeutic and preventive actions of lycopene in conditions such as prostate cancer, cardiovascular disease, and age-related macular degeneration [16, 17].

Other names

CD36Platelet glycoprotein 4SCARB1Fc receptorsImmunoglobulin G Fc receptorsCarotenoid transportersCell-surface carotenoid receptors

Lycopene binds to cell-surface transporters SR-B1 and CD36 for cellular uptake and subsequently downregulates the expression of Fc gamma receptors and proinflammatory cytokines to exert anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects.