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Light-eye-body axis: exploring the network from retinal illumination to systemic regulation
Yi Zeng1,2,3,4, Rong Rong1,2,3,4, Mengling You1,2,3,4
1Eye Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, 410008, P.R. China.
Theranostics
|January 16, 2025
Summary
Light signals through the eyes impact the whole body via non-image-forming vision. This review introduces the light-eye-body axis, exploring its mechanisms and health implications.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Neuroscience
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- The human body relies on complex inter-organ signaling for physiological functions.
- The eyes, beyond vision, influence systemic physiology through non-image-forming vision.
- Light's systemic effects via the eyes are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and systematically review the light-eye-body axis.
- To elucidate the mechanisms of light's influence on the body through the eyes.
- To summarize current research, challenges, and future directions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of visual-neural pathways.
- Analysis of retinal light signal transduction.
- Synthesis of research on physiological and pathological impacts.
Main Results:
- The light-eye-body axis concept integrates retinal light perception with systemic regulation.
- Mechanisms involve neural pathways connecting the retina to various bodily systems.
- Current research highlights the axis's role in circadian rhythms, mood, and metabolism.
Conclusions:
- The light-eye-body axis provides a framework for understanding light's systemic effects.
- Further research is needed to fully explore its mechanisms and therapeutic potential.
- Optimizing lighting and developing phototherapy standards are key applications.
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