From 1989 to 2001: what have we learned about the "biological actions of beta-carotene"?

Dr. James Allen Olson helped us to define the role of beta-carotene in human health by categorizing these as "functions, actions and associations." In the last decade, significant research has shown that beta-carotene acts as an antioxidant in biologically relevant systems, affects several aspects of human immune function and higher intake/serum levels are associated with improvements in certain physiological functions such as lung function. The unexpected findings of increased lung cancer in beta-carotene supplemented smokers in the ATBC and CARET intervention studies have resulted in the need for expanded research efforts to define the mechanism(s) of action of beta-carotene. Recent survey data as well as laboratory animal studies continue to find an inverse association between beta-carotene and cancer risk. Because beta-carotene is the major source of vitamin A for the majority of the world's population, it is critical to define the safe levels of intake from foods and supplements.