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Research: RENZI and COLLEAGUES,
Listed in Issue 239
Abstract
RENZI and COLLEAGUES, (1)University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602-3013, USA; Abbott Nutrition, Columbus, OH, USA conducted a study to test the hypothesis that the presence of Lutein (L), and zeaxanthin (Z), in both motor and visual areas of the central nervous system is consistent with a role of these carotenoids in visual-motor behaviour.
Background
Lutein (L), zeaxanthin (Z), and meso-zeaxanthin are the dominant carotenoids within the central retina (there, termed macular pigment, MP). L is also the dominant carotenoid in the brain. The presence of L and Z in both motor and visual areas of the central nervous system is consistent with a role of these carotenoids in visual-motor behaviour. The purpose of this study was to provide a first test of this hypothesis.
Methodology
Balance ability (measured via the Standing Leg Test) and simple reaction time (measured via a stimulus appearing in one of four quadrants of a computer monitor) were measured in 49 subjects (mean age = 54.8 years). Fixed and variable reaction time, and coincidence anticipation ability (estimating the arrival of the stimulus at a target location moving at four velocities) were assessed in 106 younger subjects (mean age = 23 years) using a customized device. MP optical density was measured in all subjects via customized heterochromatic flicker photometry.
Results
MP optical density was significantly (P < 0.05) related to reaction time and to balance ability for the older subjects. Even for the younger group, MP optical density was significantly (P < 0.05) related to fixed and variable position reaction time, as well as coincidence anticipation errors, at high speed.
Conclusion
L and Z status has been linked to benefits in cognitive function in past research. The present results, and the selective presence of L and Z in visual and motor areas in the brain, are consistent with these carotenoids having a role in visual and motor integration.
References
Renzi LM(1), Bovier ER, Hammond BR Jr. A role for the macular carotenoids in visual motor response. Nutr Neurosci. 16(6):262-8. Nov 2013. doi: 10.1179/1476830513Y.0000000054.
