Meso-Zeaxanthin (1990s, 2003, 2007) & Macular Degneration

Learn more about support for macular degeneration.

Exploration of the carotenoid meso-zeaxanthin has determined that it is an important pigment in the macula in addition to lutein and zeaxanthin. Like zeaxanthin, meso-zeaxanthin comprises 25% of the macular pigments. Lutein is the other 50% of macular pigments.

2003 Scientists evaluated levels of carotenoids lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin in the retina of donated eyes in patients both with and without macular degeneration.¹ The study substantiated other research² which has reported that these carotenoids are critical to maintain the health of the macula.

2003 Other studies pointed to the source of meso-zeaxanthin, which cannot be directly consumed as part of one's diet, but which is produced through conversion, in the retina, from lutein.²

If taken as a supplement, meso-zeaxanthin is absorbed into the blood stream and effectively increases macular pigment levels. Vrabec T, Tantri A et al. Autosomal dominant Stargardt-like macular dystrophy: identification of a new family with a mutation in the ELOVL4 gene. Am J Ophthalmol. 2003;136(3):542-5

Researchers also found that patients who suffer from macular degeneration have 30% less meso-zeaxanthin in their macula compared to patients with healthy eyes.³ Such deficiency may be due to either not enough lutein in the diet or the inability of the retina to convert lutein to meso-zeaxanthin.

1. M. Michaelides, D. Hunt, et al., The genetics of inherited macular dystrophies. Journal of Medical Genetics, 2003
2. S.M. Meyers, T. Grene, et al., A twin study of age-related macular degeneration. American Journal of Ophthalmology, 1995
3. T. Vrabec, A. Tantri, et al., Autosomal dominant Stargardt-like macular dystrophy: identification of a new family with a mutation in the ELOVL4 gene, American Journal of Ophthalmology, 2003

2007 More research substantiates that meso-zeaxanthin is important in preventing macular degeneration. Researchers found that the carotenoid helps to increase the density of macular pigments that protect the retina from damaging sunlight.

In a small 4 month study patients daily received 20mg meso-zeaxanthin along with smaller amounts of lutein and zeaxanthin. An like-sized control group took a placebo. They found that levels of all three carotenoids increased in the blood and macular pigment density increased. There were no changes in the patients receiving placebo.

Researchers: R.A. Bone, et al, Florida International University
Published: Macular pigment response to a supplement containing meso-zeaxanthin, lutein and zeaxanthin, Nutrition and Metabolism, 2007