Possible biologic mechanisms for a protective role of xanthophylls.
This contribution surveys the evidence linking the presence of the two xanthophylls, lutein and zeaxanthin, to a protective role in the macular region of the retina. Although the evidence is still associative in nature, it is biologically plausible, and may be resolved with additional intervention trials.
Krinsky
Norman I
NI
Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, U.S. Department of Agriculture Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Tufts University, Boston, MA 02111-1837, USA. norman.krinsky@tufts.edu
D000375:Aging; D000975:Antioxidants; D006801:Humans; D014975:Lutein / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000502:physiology*; D008266:Macula Lutea; D008268:Macular Degeneration / Q000517:prevention & control; D024341:Xanthophylls; D065146:Zeaxanthins; D019207:beta Carotene / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000031:analogs & derivatives / Q000502:physiology*
D000975:Antioxidants; D024341:Xanthophylls; D065146:Zeaxanthins; D019207:beta Carotene; D014975:Lutein