Possible biologic mechanisms for a protective role of xanthophylls

Norman I Krinsky

doi:10.1093/jn/132.3.540S

Possible biologic mechanisms for a protective role of xanthophylls

J Nutr. 2002 Mar;132(3):540S-542S. doi: 10.1093/jn/132.3.540S.

Author

Norman I Krinsky¹

Affiliation

¹ 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

PMID: 11880589
DOI: 10.1093/jn/132.3.540S

Abstract

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.

Publication types

Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
Review

MeSH terms

Aging
Antioxidants
Humans
Lutein / administration & dosage
Lutein / physiology*
Macula Lutea
Macular Degeneration / prevention & control
Xanthophylls
Zeaxanthins
beta Carotene / administration & dosage
beta Carotene / analogs & derivatives
beta Carotene / physiology*

Substances

Antioxidants
Xanthophylls
Zeaxanthins
beta Carotene
Lutein