Lutein supplementation leads to decreased soluble complement membrane attack complex sC5b-9 plasma levels

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Immunology
• Nutrition Science

Background:

• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss in the elderly.
• The complement system, a part of innate immunity, plays a role in AMD pathogenesis.
• Lutein, a carotenoid, is known for its potential benefits in eye health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of lutein supplementation on systemic complement activation in elderly individuals with early AMD.
• To assess changes in the plasma levels of soluble complement membrane attack complex (sC5b-9) as a marker of complement activation.

Main Methods:

• A randomized, placebo-controlled trial involving 70 elderly patients with early AMD.
• Participants received 10 mg of lutein or a placebo daily for 1 year.
• Plasma sC5b-9 levels were measured using ELISA at baseline and various time points (0, 4, 8, and 12 months).

Main Results:

• Lutein group showed a significant monthly decrease of 1.1 ng/ml in plasma sC5b-9 (p<0.001), from 60.3 ng/ml to 46.3 ng/ml over 12 months.
• Placebo group showed a significant monthly increase of 0.6 ng/ml in plasma sC5b-9 (p=0.001), from 51.6 ng/ml to 58.4 ng/ml over 12 months.
• These findings indicate lutein inhibits complement system activation.

Conclusions:

• Lutein supplementation effectively inhibits systemic complement activation in elderly individuals with early AMD.
• This provides functional evidence supporting the use of lutein in managing AMD.
• Lutein's anti-inflammatory properties may contribute to its beneficial effects in AMD.