Recent studies are developing the case further that macular pigment could be a biomarker for neurodegeneration, and our latest infographic explores this topic in detail.
Lutein is a key ingredient in macular pigment, and macular pigment optical density (MPOD) is currently used to detect risk of age-related macular degeneration. New research shows that eye lutein levels could potentially substitute brain lutein measurement, and predict risk of dementia or Alzheimer’s.
Currently brain lutein levels are the only way to test for dementia and Alzheimer’s, and can only be performed post-mortem. This helps to an extent in understanding the conditions but obviously it doesn’t provide a way to detect the early stages of the disease in a patient.
What potential does eye lutein measurement for neurodegeneration offer?
- MPOD is monitored regularly at eye examinations
- Diagnosis is made earlier, potentially before symptoms begin
- Treatments for dementia and Alzheimer’s can start earlier
- Onset of the disease can be slowed, even if a cure is not available
With a top heavy population the development of this test is important, as more baby boomers reach old age cases of Alzheimer’s in the USA will increase from 5.2 million to 13.8 million by 2050. A low cost, easily accessible and non-invasive test for neurodegeneration is needed.
Our MPS II screener measures MPOD, which could be used as a biomarker for low brain lutein levels.
Read our full infographic below (click for a larger version) and share with your colleagues using the links provided.
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