Meso-Zeaxanthin

Meso-Zeaxanthin is a xanthophyll and one of the three dietary zeaxanthin isomers that is directly deposited in the eye, specifically the macula region of the retina. It is a yellow pigment that is believed to protect the eye from Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and other eye-related diseases.

Chemical Structure

Meso-Zeaxanthin has a chemical formula of C40H56O2. It is a carotenoid, which means it is part of a class of yellow, orange, and red pigments produced by plants, algae, and photosynthetic bacteria. Meso-Zeaxanthin is unique among the xanthophylls because it has a non-polar structure, which allows it to span the lipid bilayer of cell membranes and provide antioxidant protection to both the lipid and aqueous parts of cells.

Sources

Meso-Zeaxanthin is not typically found in a normal diet. It is believed to be formed in the retina from lutein, another dietary xanthophyll. Some studies suggest that meso-zeaxanthin may also be obtained from certain types of seafood, such as shrimp and fish.

Health Benefits

Meso-Zeaxanthin is primarily known for its role in eye health. It is one of the three carotenoids, along with lutein and zeaxanthin, that are found in the macula of the human eye. These three carotenoids are known as the macular pigment, which is believed to protect the macula from damage by blue light and oxidative stress.

Several studies have suggested that a higher intake of meso-zeaxanthin and other macular pigments may reduce the risk of developing AMD, the leading cause of blindness in the elderly. Meso-zeaxanthin may also have other health benefits due to its antioxidant properties, although more research is needed in this area.

See Also

• Lutein
• Zeaxanthin
• Carotenoid
• Age-related Macular Degeneration

References

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Meso-Zeaxanthin

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  Updated graphic 24.2.16
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  Conversion of lutein to meso-zeaxanthin