The paper reviewed the absorption and metabolism of carotenoid in intestine, as well as its antioxidant function and regulation function of immunity and gene expression. The expression of carotenoid-related genes in ovary and the effect of maternal carotenoid on embryonic development were discussed, too. Intensive studies on carotenoid absorption mechanism and its physiological function are important to human health and its application in animal husbandry, as well as the production of functional foods.［Chinese Journal of Animal Nutrition, 2010，22（4）:823-829］