SQUALENE, A VIBRANT MOLECULE DESPITE ITS ONE-HUNDRED-FIVE-YEAR OLD DISCOVERY

Abstract

Squalene is a hydrocarbon intermediary involved in the biosynthesis of phytosterols and terpenes in plants and of cholesterol in animals. Its discovery backs to 1916. Recent research on biological effects has shown this compound to display antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerotic properties. When animals accumulate in the liver, this fatty liver does not influence their longevity, but influences both gene expression networks and post-transcriptional protein levels. Combination of squalene with other biological compounds is an open aspect to develop functional food to control oxidative stress and aging in human and veterinary medicine. Its current use in cosmetics or as vaccine adjuvant makes of it a coveted molecule. Traditionally, sharps have been its source. However, the impact of their capture for this purpose is unsustainable and the search for new sources is highly required. The quest for those in order to reach the demand poses new technological challenges.