Nutraceutical and Therapeutic Applications of Squalene

Abstract

Squalene, an isoprenoid molecule present in large
quantities in deep sea shark liver oil and in smaller
amounts (0.1-0.7%) in palm, wheat-germ, olive and
rice bran oils, is well known for its antilipidemic,
antioxidant and membrane stabilizing properties.
Squalene is a key precursor molecule in the
biosynthesis of vitamins, cholesterol and steroid
hormones in animals. In human, presence of this
highly unsaturated hydrocarbon keeps the skin
healthy and protects it from ultraviolet radiations
mediated carcinogenesis. Recently, squalene has
drawn major attention as high valuable compound
due its potential applications in the field of
pharmacological, cosmetic, and nutraceutical industries.
The present review includes a brief description
about the natural sources, properties and applications
of squalene.