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Related Experiment Videos

Light exposure and macular pigment optical density.

Adam J Wenzel1, Kenneth Fuld, James M Stringham

  • 1Department of Psychology, University of New Hampshire, 10 Library Way, Durham, NH 03824-3567, USA.

Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science
|December 31, 2002
PubMed
Summary

Light exposure does not significantly impact lutein and zeaxanthin levels in the retina. However, multiple macular pigment optical density (MPOD) measures are recommended due to day-to-day variations.

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Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Nutritional Science
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Lutein and zeaxanthin are macular carotenoids known to be photosensitive.
  • UV light exposure may decrease plasma carotenoid levels.
  • The impact of normal light exposure on retinal carotenoid levels requires investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effect of normal light exposure on lutein and zeaxanthin levels in the retina.
  • To determine if light adaptation conditions influence macular pigment optical density (MPOD).

Main Methods:

  • Macular pigment optical density (MPOD) was measured using heterochromatic flicker photometry.
  • Measurements were taken at 0.5 degrees eccentricity in two male subjects.
  • Subjects were exposed to four different light-adaptation conditions over 20 days.

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Main Results:

  • No significant effect of light-adaptation conditions on MPOD was observed.
  • Significant day-to-day differences in MPOD were noted for both subjects.
  • Retinal lutein and zeaxanthin levels appeared stable throughout the day.

Conclusions:

  • Retinal lutein and zeaxanthin levels are not significantly affected by daily light exposure or oxidation.
  • Current methods of measuring MPOD at any time of day are justified.
  • Multiple MPOD measurements are advisable to accurately assess retinal carotenoid levels due to inter-day variability.