Bernstein Lab

Research focus

NIH R01 · 2025

Biochemistry and Pharmacology of the Macular Carotenoids

Project Summary/Abstract The macular pigment carotenoids, lutein, zeaxanthin, and lutein’s metabolite meso-zeaxanthin are uniquely concentrated in the primate foveal region to form the yellow pigment of the macula lutea where they can enhance visual function and protect against the light-induced oxidative damage that has been associated with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and other disorders of the retina. Diets and supplements enriched in lutein and zeaxanthin are among the most widely prescribed interventions for patients concerned about future visual loss from AMD, and these xanthophyll carotenoids have become standard-of-care for individuals with large drusen or advanced AMD in…

From the public funding record at NIH RePORTER. Describes the funded project, not the reviews below.