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Lutein eases blocked blood flow to eyes |
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Lutein eases blocked blood flow to eyes
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Darrell Miller | 08/11/06 |
Date:
August 11, 2006 01:50 PM
Author: Darrell Miller
(dm@vitanetonline.com)
Subject: Lutein eases blocked blood flow to eyes
A recent study supported by Kemin Food Asia and conducted at the College of Medicine, Catholic University of Korea suggested that lutein protects the retina from cellular damage caused by eye conditions, including diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. The researchers injected rats with lutein prior to retinal ischemia, or reduced blood flow to the retina caused by obstruction of the blood vessels. Results showed the lutein inhibited retinal degeneration, which is marked by reduced expression levels of neuronal nitric oxide synthase and Cyclo-oxygenase-2, or COX-2. In addition, the reduction of these proteins appeared to be dose-dependent, which would imply benefit from increased exposure to this carotenoid. According to the lead author of the study, “These results suggest that a lutein supplement may protect against ischemia mediated cell death in the retina."
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