title: Macular pigment in retinal health and disease.
abstract: Lutein and zeaxanthin, two carotenoid pigments of the xanthophyll subclass, are present in high concentrations in the retina, especially in the macula. They work as a filter protecting the macula from blue light and also as a resident antioxidant and free radical scavenger to reduce oxidative stress-induced damage. Many observational and interventional studies have suggested that lutein and zeaxanthin may reduce the risk of various eye diseases, especially late forms of AMD. In vitro and in vivo studies indicate that they could protect various ocular cells against oxidative damage. Recent research has shown that in addition to traditional mechanisms, lutein and zeaxanthin can influence the viability and function of cells through various signal pathways or transcription factors: for instance, they can affect immune responses and inflammation, and have anti-angiogenic and anti-tumor properties. This review covers the basic aspects and results of recent studies regarding the effects of lutein, zeaxanthin and other carotenoids, such as meso-zeaxanthin, on the eye in different clinical and experimental models and the management of various ocular diseases using these molecules.
authors.affiliation: Retina Service, Hospital Humberto Castro Lima (IBOPC), Salvador, Bahia Brazil ; Retina Service, Department of Ophthalmology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
authors.forename: Verônica Castro
authors.initials: VC
authors.lastname: Lima
authors.affiliation: Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY USA ; Retina Service, Department of Ophthalmology, The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai, 310 East 14th Street, New York, NY 10003 USA.
authors.forename: Richard B
authors.initials: RB
authors.lastname: Rosen
authors.affiliation: Retina Service, Department of Ophthalmology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
authors.forename: Michel
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Farah