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Lutein and Zeaxanthin and Eye Disease

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Book cover Carotenoids and Human Health

Part of the book series: Nutrition and Health ((NH))

Abstract

The xanthophylls lutein and zeaxanthin are oxygenated carotenoids that preferentially accumulate in the macular region of the retina. Lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin (a conversion product of lutein formed in the macula) are referred to as macular pigment. Lutein and zeaxanthin are also present in all other ocular structures except the vitreous, cornea, and sclera; although, their concentrations are much lower than in the macular region. Lutein and zeaxanthin protect the ocular tissues by their ability to filter damaging blue light and their antioxidant potential.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Carotenoids and Health Laboratory, Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, 711 Washington St., Boston, MA, 02111, USA

    Rohini Vishwanathan Ph.D. & Elizabeth J. Johnson Ph.D.

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  1. Rohini Vishwanathan Ph.D.
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  2. Elizabeth J. Johnson Ph.D.
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Correspondence to Elizabeth J. Johnson Ph.D. .

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  1. University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1415 Linden Dr., Madison, 53706, Wisconsin, USA

    Sherry A. Tanumihardjo

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Vishwanathan, R., Johnson, E.J. (2013). Lutein and Zeaxanthin and Eye Disease. In: Tanumihardjo, S. (eds) Carotenoids and Human Health. Nutrition and Health. Humana Press, Totowa, NJ. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-62703-203-2_13

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