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Updated: May 30, 2026
Real-Time Analysis of Bioenergetics in Primary Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Cells Using High-Resolution Respirometry
Published on: February 3, 2023
Protective actions of microalgae against endogenous and exogenous advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs) in human
Zheng Sun1, Jin Liu, Xiaohui Zeng
1School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, P. R. China.
Abstract:
The formation and accumulation of advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs) is a key pathophysiological process involved in various diabetic complications such as diabetic retinopathy. In the present study, for the first time, protective effects of three microalgal strains, including their extracts and active compounds, against both endogenous and exogenous AGEs in cell-based models were investigated. Results showed that in cultured human-derived retinal pigment epithelial ARPE-19 cells, the extract of Chlorella zofingiensis and its nutritional ingredient astaxanthin exhibited significant inhibitory effects on the formation of endogenous N(ε)-carboxymethyllysine (CML), a key AGE representative, through the suppression of intracellular oxidative stress. On the other hand, extracts of Chlorella zofingiensis, Chlorella protothecoides and Nitzschia laevis as well as their nutritional ingredients, namely astaxanthin, lutein and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), attenuated the deleterious effects induced by exogenous AGEs, such as cell proliferation and mRNA upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-2, which are critical steps involved in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy. These results suggested the positive roles of astaxanthin, lutein and EPA in controlling the development of diabetes. These microalgae, therefore, might be regarded as beneficial foods and preventive agent choices for patients with diabetic retinopathy.
Insights
Microalgae extracts and compounds like astaxanthin show promise in combating diabetic retinopathy. They inhibit advanced glycation endproduct formation and reduce damaging effects, suggesting a role in diabetes management.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Advanced glycation endproducts (AGEs) are implicated in diabetic complications, including retinopathy.
- Investigating natural compounds for AGE inhibition is crucial for managing diabetes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the protective effects of microalgal strains and their compounds against AGEs.
- To assess the impact on key markers of diabetic retinopathy pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Utilized cell-based models with human-derived retinal pigment epithelial ARPE-19 cells.
- Examined the effects of microalgal extracts (Chlorella zofingiensis, Chlorella protothecoides, Nitzschia laevis) and compounds (astaxanthin, lutein, EPA).
- Measured inhibition of endogenous N(ε)-carboxymethyllysine (CML) and attenuation of exogenous AGE-induced effects (cell proliferation, VEGF, MMP-2 mRNA).
Main Results:
- Chlorella zofingiensis extract and astaxanthin inhibited endogenous CML formation by suppressing oxidative stress.
- Microalgal extracts and compounds (astaxanthin, lutein, EPA) reduced negative impacts of exogenous AGEs on cell proliferation and VEGF/MMP-2 expression.
- Demonstrated protective effects against AGEs in a cell-based model relevant to diabetic retinopathy.
Conclusions:
- Astaxanthin, lutein, and eicosapentaenoic acid show potential in mitigating AGE-related damage.
- Microalgae and their components may serve as beneficial dietary choices for diabetic retinopathy prevention and management.
- These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of microalgae in controlling diabetes complications.
