Versatile Cell Membrane Protection The molecular character of this natural astaxanthin especially equips it to become incorporated into working cell membranes. The molecule is long and thin, with both ends having “polar” groups that are compatible with water but the middle segment being “nonpolar” and not water-compatible. This specific molecular layout allows astaxanthin to insert into cell membranes without substantially changing the membrane structure. In this way astaxanthin differs from other carotenoids which distort the membrane’s structure and thereby make it more vulnerable to damage from “free radical” or other toxic influences. Within the membrane astaxanthin provides potent protection against free radical or other toxic attack. All cells have membranes, and membranes manage most of the processes important for life. Every cell membrane is an ultrathin, extended, double molecular sheet of lipids, into which are inserted enzymes and other catalytic proteins. The proteins’ metabolic activities unavoidably generate highly reactive “free radicals” of oxygen, nitrogen, sulfur or carbon within the membrane or at its surface. The astaxanthin in cell membranes helps protect against all such byproducts of normal metabolism. The double lipid layers of cell membranes can resemble micro-railroad tracks as seen under a microscope. Each astaxanthin molecule likely spans the membrane’s two layers, rather like ties span a railroad track. This positions them to intercept and neutralize free radicals, whether these are at the membrane’s edge or within its core.