Researchers have shown that the carotenoid phytoene increases the lifespan of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans and can slow the onset of paralysis associated with the formation of amyloid plaques in a model of Alzheimer's disease. Specifically, increases in longevity of between 10% and 18.6% and decreases in the proteotoxic effect of plaques of between 30% and 40% were observed. The studies tested pure phytoene and extracts rich in this carotenoid obtained from microalgae. According to Dr. Paula Mapelli Brahm, "These are very exciting preliminary results, so we are looking for funding to continue this line of research and to find...