The emerging roles of the macular pigment carotenoids throughout the lifespan and in prenatal supplementation.
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SUBMITTER: Bernstein PS
PROVIDER: S-EPMC7933486 | biostudies-literature |
REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature
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Project description:PurposeTo analyze macular pigment (MP) amount and distribution in patients with macular telangiectasia Type 2 receiving oral zeaxanthin supplementation in a randomized, open-label, interventional trial.MethodsEight macular telangiectasia Type 2 patients were randomized to 10 mg or 20 mg of zeaxanthin per day. At each visit, best-corrected visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, fundus biomicroscopy, color fundus photography, autofluorescence imaging, optical coherence tomography, and serum carotenoid levels were tested. Patients were assessed at baseline and after 6, 12, 18, and 24 months of zeaxanthin supplementation. Concentration of MP was analyzed and calculated from autofluorescence imaging obtained at 488-nm excitation wavelength. Serum carotenoid levels were obtained using high-performance liquid chromatography.ResultsThe majority of patients had definite increases in the intensity of hypofluorescent ring of MP, but none of them deposited MP centrally at the fovea. Although some patients noted subjective improvements in vision, no objective improvements could be documented, and there were no changes in foveal optical coherence tomographic features. Yellowish, hypofluorescent crystals appeared in one patient's macular region with no change in visual acuity. These inner retinal crystals disappeared several months after discontinuing her 20-mg zeaxanthin supplement.ConclusionBased on the current study, zeaxanthin supplementation does not result in any visual benefit in patients with macular telangiectasia Type 2 and does not reestablish a normal peaked distribution of MP in the fovea. One patient developed a novel, reversible, crystalline maculopathy in response to zeaxanthin supplementation that was reminiscent of canthaxanthin crystalline maculopathy.
| S-EPMC5503818 | biostudies-literature
Project description:Reduced absorption capacity in patients with intestinal resections (IR) could result in malabsorption of fat-soluble components like carotenoids, which are of clinical interest in relation to visual health. In this case cohort, we investigated the association between IR and serum lutein, zeaxanthin, β-carotene and macular pigment optical density, when compared with healthy controls. Ten patients with IR and twelve healthy controls were included in the study. Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups, except for higher serum TAG (P < 0·05) and shorter bowel length (P < 0·0001) in the group with IR. Serum lutein, zeaxanthin, β-carotene and macular pigment optical density were >15 % lower in the patient group compared with healthy controls (P < 0·05, adjusted for age) and, in the case of serum lutein and zeaxanthin, also for dietary intake of carotenoids. Results suggest that for a test of macular carotenoid supplementation, subjects with a potentially clinically significant carotenoid deficit could be recruited among patients with IR.
| S-EPMC5799610 | biostudies-literature
Project description:Among the more than 750 carotenoids identified in nature, only lutein, zeaxanthin, meso-zeaxanthin, and their oxidative metabolites are selectively accumulated in the macula lutea region of the human retina. These retinal carotenoids are collectively referred to as the macular pigment (MP) and are obtained only through dietary sources such as green leafy vegetables and yellow and orange fruits and vegetables. Lutein- and zeaxanthin-specific binding proteins (StARD3 and GSTP1, respectively) mediate the highly selective uptake of MP into the retina. Meso-zeaxanthin is rarely present in the diet, and its unique presence in the human eye results from metabolic conversion from dietary lutein by the RPE65 enzyme. The MP carotenoids filter high-intensity, short-wavelength visible light and are powerful antioxidants in a region vulnerable to light-induced oxidative stress. This review focuses on MP chemistry, absorption, metabolism, transport, and distribution with special emphasis on animal models used for MP study. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Carotenoids recent advances in cell and molecular biology edited by Johannes von Lintig and Loredana Quadro.
| S-EPMC7347445 | biostudies-literature
Project description:ImportanceNutritional uptake of lutein, zeaxanthin, and ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids may increase macular pigment optical density (MPOD) and thereby protect against the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).ObjectivesTo estimate the efficiency of dietary supplementation containing lutein, zeaxanthin, ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, and vitamins to increase the density of macular pigment in first-generation offspring of parents with neovascular AMD.Design, setting, and participantsThis study was a randomized clinical trial (Lutein Influence on Macula of Persons Issued From AMD Parents [LIMPIA]) with a 6-month treatment period, followed by a 6-month follow-up period. Analyses were based on the intent-to-treat principle. The setting was 2 university hospitals in France (at Bordeaux and Dijon) from January 2011 (first participant first visit) to February 2013 (last participant last visit). The analysis was conducted from January to November 2016. Participants were 120 individuals free of any retinal ocular disease. They were first-generation offspring of parents with neovascular AMD.InterventionsParticipants were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive either 2 daily dietary supplementation capsules or placebo for 6 months.Main outcomes and measuresThe primary assessment criterion was the evolution of MPOD after 6 months of supplementation (value of both eligible eyes) measured using the modified MPD-Visucam 200 (Carl Zeiss Meditec) and the modified Heidelberg Retina Angiograph (Heidelberg Engineering) (HRA) at 0.98° eccentricity. The statistical analysis was adjusted for hospital and for risk factors.ResultsOverall, 120 participants (60 in each group) were included, and 239 eyes were analyzed (119 in the lutein plus zeaxanthin [L + Z] group and 120 in the placebo group). Their mean (SD) age was 56.7 (6.6) years, and 71.7% (n = 86) were female. A statistically significant increase in plasma lutein and zeaxanthin was shown in the L + Z group after 3 months and 6 months of treatment compared with the placebo group. However, the difference between groups in the evolution of MPOD measured by HRA 0.98° eccentricity between 6 months and baseline was 0.036 (95% CI, -0.037 to 0.110) (P = .33).Conclusions and relevanceAmong first-generation offspring of parents with neovascular AMD in the LIMPIA trial, MPOD as measured with the modified HRA and the MPD-Visucam was not modified after 6 months of lutein and zeaxanthin dietary supplementation despite plasma levels showing continuous exposure to lutein and zeaxanthin. Further research is necessary to understand the mechanism of absorption and metabolism of these nutrients in the macula, the best way to measure MPOD, and the clinical benefit for the patients.Trial registrationclinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01269697.
| S-EPMC5710391 | biostudies-literature
Project description:PurposeTo describe the feasibility of intraoperative digital visualization and its contribution to the enhancement of macular pigmentation visualization in a prospective series of macular surgery interventions.Materials and methodsA prospective, single-center, single-surgeon study was performed on a series of 21 consecutive cases of vitrectomy for various types of macular surgery using a 3D visualization system. Two optimized filters were applied to enhance the visualization of the macular pigment (MP). For filter 1, cyan, yellow, and magenta color saturations were increased. Filter 2 differed from filter 1 only in having a lower level of magenta saturation for the green-magenta color channel.ResultsOptimized digital filters enhanced the visualization of the MP and the pigmented epiretinal tissue associated with the lamellar and macular holes. In vitreomacular traction surgery, the filters facilitated the assessment of MP integrity at the end of surgery. Filter 1 enhanced MP visualization most strongly, with the MP appearing green and slightly fluorescent. Filter 2 enhanced MP visualization less effectively but gave a clearer image of the retinal surface, facilitating safe macular peeling.ConclusionOptimized digital filters could be used to enhance MP and pigmented epiretinal tissue visualization during macular surgery. These filters open new horizons for future research and should be evaluated in larger series and correlated with intraoperative OCT.
| S-EPMC10051350 | biostudies-literature
Project description:PurposeTo evaluate macular pigment response to carotenoid supplementation in glaucomatous eyes.DesignDouble-masked, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, the European Nutrition in Glaucoma Management Study (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT04460365).ParticipantsSixty-two participants (38 men, 24 women) with a diagnosis of open-angle glaucoma were enrolled. Forty-two were randomized to receive the active supplement, 20 participants were allocated to placebo.MethodsMacular pigment optical density (MPOD) was measured by autofluorescence using the Heidelberg Spectralis scanning laser ophthalmoscope. Macular pigment optical density volume within the central 6° of retinal eccentricity as well as MPOD at 0.23°, 0.51°, 0.74°, and 1.02° were recorded at baseline and at 6-month intervals over 18 months. Visual function was assessed using visual acuity, mesopic and photopic contrast sensitivity under glare conditions, photo stress recovery time, microperimetry, and Glaucoma Activities Limitation 9 questionnaire. Advanced glaucoma module scans of retinal nerve fiber layer thickness and ganglion cell complex thickness over the central 6° of retinal eccentricity also were completed at each study visit.Main outcome measuresChange in MPOD after supplementation with 10 mg lutein, 2 mg zeaxanthin, and 10 mg meso-zeaxanthin or placebo over 18 months.ResultsA mixed-model repeated measures analysis of variance revealed a statistically significant increase in MPOD volume (significant time effect: F(3,111) = 89.31, mean square error (MSE) = 1656.9; P < 0.01). Post hoc t tests revealed a significant difference in MPOD volume at each study visit for the treatment group (P < 0.01 for all), but no change in the placebo group (P > 0.05 for all). A statistically significant increase in mesopic contrast sensitivity under glare conditions was noted at 18 months in the treatment group, but not placebo. No other structural or functional changes were observed. No serious adverse events were noted during the trial.ConclusionsMacular pigment can be augmented in glaucomatous eyes by supplementation with a formulation containing the carotenoids lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin. The greatest relative benefit was observed in those with the lowest baseline levels, but increases were noted across all participants and each retinal eccentricity. The potential benefits of MP augmentation for macular health in glaucoma merit further long-term evaluation.
| S-EPMC9562333 | biostudies-literature
Project description:Cortical thinning occurs throughout the entire life and extends to late-life neurodegeneration, yet the neurobiological substrates are poorly understood. Here, we used a virtual-histology technique and gene expression data from the Allen Human Brain Atlas to compare the regional profiles of longitudinal cortical thinning through life (4004 magnetic resonance images [MRIs]) with those of gene expression for several neuronal and non-neuronal cell types. The results were replicated in three independent datasets. We found that inter-regional profiles of cortical thinning related to expression profiles for marker genes of CA1 pyramidal cells, astrocytes and, microglia during development and in aging. During the two stages of life, the relationships went in opposite directions: greater gene expression related to less thinning in development and vice versa in aging. The association between cortical thinning and cell-specific gene expression was also present in mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's Disease. These findings suggest a role of astrocytes and microglia in promoting and supporting neuronal growth and dendritic structures through life that affects cortical thickness during development, aging, and neurodegeneration. Overall, the findings contribute to our understanding of the neurobiology underlying variations in MRI-derived estimates of cortical thinning through life and late-life disease.
| S-EPMC7732849 | biostudies-literature
Project description:Pepper of the Capsicum species is a common ingredient in various food preparations by different cultures worldwide. The Capsicum is recognised by its five main domesticated species, namely Capsicum annuum, C. baccatum, C. chinense, C. frutescens and C. pubescens. The genetic diversity in Capsicum offers fruits in wide ranges of morphology and carotenoid profile. Carotenoids enhance the value of pepper from a nutritional standpoint, despite being commonly prized for the pharmacologically active pungent capsaicinoids. Carotenoids of pepper comprise mainly of the unique, powerful and highly stable capsanthin and capsoroubin, together with ?-carotene, ?-cryptoxanthin, lutein, zeaxanthin, antheraxanthin and violaxanthin. These carotenoids are present at diverse profile and varying levels, biosynthetically connected to the fruit maturity stages. This review describes the health-promoting functional attributes of the carotenoids that are mainly associated with their excellent role as lipophilic antioxidants. Capsicum as a great source of carotenoids is discussed in the aspects of main domesticated species, biosynthesis, pigment profile, antioxidant activity and safety. Findings from a number of in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies provided appreciable evidence on the protective effects of pepper's carotenoids against degenerative diseases. Hence, pepper with its functional carotenoids might be recommended in health-promoting and disease preventing strategies.
| S-EPMC6827103 | biostudies-literature
Project description:Maternal obesity and consumption of a high-fat diet significantly elevate risk for pediatric nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), affecting 10% of children in the US. Almost half of these children are diagnosed with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a leading etiology for liver transplant. Animal models show that signs of liver injury and perturbed lipid metabolism associated with NAFLD begin in utero; however, safe dietary therapeutics to blunt developmental programming of NAFLD are unavailable. Using a mouse model of maternal Western-style diet (WD), we previously showed that pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ), a potent dietary antioxidant, protected offspring of WD-fed dams from development of NAFLD and NASH. Here, we used untargeted mass spectrometry-based lipidomics to delineate lipotoxic effects of WD on offspring liver and identify lipid targets of PQQ. PQQ exposure during pregnancy altered hepatic lipid profiles of WD-exposed offspring, upregulating peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) α signaling and mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation to markedly attenuate triglyceride accumulation beginning in utero. Surprisingly, the abundance of very long-chain ceramides, important in promoting gut barrier and hepatic function, was significantly elevated in PQQ-treated offspring. PQQ exposure reduced the hepatic phosphatidylcholine/phosphatidylethanolamine (PC/PE) ratio in WD-fed offspring and improved glucose tolerance. Notably, levels of protective n - 3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) were elevated in offspring exposed to PQQ, beginning in utero, and the increase in n - 3 PUFAs persisted into adulthood. Our findings suggest that PQQ supplementation during gestation and lactation augments pathways involved in the biosynthesis of long-chain fatty acids and plays a unique role in modifying specific bioactive lipid species critical for protection against NAFLD risk in later life.
| S-EPMC9181499 | biostudies-literature
Project description:PURPOSE: To estimate the value of macular pigment optical density (MPOD) in adult south Indian population with wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS: A total of 33 patients with wet AMD and 29 age-matched controls >50 years of age underwent MPOD measurement with the macular densitometer. The patients were also tested for their dietary intake of carotenoids, smoking history, and lifetime UV exposure. RESULTS: The mean MPOD values in the Indian population with wet AMD was 0.23 (95% CI: 0.18-0.29) vs control was 0.43 (95% CI: 0.37-0.49), P<0.0001, at 0.5° eccentricity. Ex-smokers had a lower MPOD than non-smokers (0.16 (0.09-0.23) vs 0.28 (0.22-0.34), P=0.026) and the lowest level of carotenoids intake had 48% lower MPOD than the highest level (0.14 (0.08-0.21) vs 0.33 (0.24-0.43), P=0.012). There was no significant age-related decline or gender variation in MPOD. CONCLUSION: This study establishes the MPOD in adult Indian population with wet AMD, with a lack of macular pigment in association with wet AMD.
| S-EPMC3420056 | biostudies-other