Carotenoids are of great interest due to their essential biological functions in both plants and animals. However, the properties and functions of carotenoids in natural systems are surprisingly complex. With an emphasis on the chemical aspects of these compounds, Carotenoids: Physical, Chemical, and Biological Functions and Properties presents a broad overview and recent developments with respect to understanding carotenoid structure, electronic and photochemical properties, and the use of novel analytical methods in the detection and characterization of carotenoids and their actions. The text also explores LC/MS and LC/MS/MS techniques as well as new applications of PCR and molecular biology methodologies.