Macular pigment (MP) (MP)

The macular pigment is a specialized biological filter located in the central retina, composed of the dietary xanthophyll carotenoids lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin (Bernstein et al., 2016). It serves a dual protective role by absorbing high-energy, short-wavelength blue light (400–500 nm) and acting as a powerful antioxidant to neutralize reactive oxygen species generated by light-induced oxidative stress (Arunkumar et al., 2018). These pigments are concentrated in the Henle fiber layer of the macula, the area responsible for high-acuity central vision, where they protect the photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium from cumulative damage. Low levels of macular pigment, measured as macular pigment optical density (MPOD), are strongly associated with an increased risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD) (NIH/NEI AREDS2). Consequently, the macular pigment is a primary target for nutritional interventions, with clinical evidence supporting the use of lutein and zeaxanthin supplementation to slow the progression of advanced AMD and improve visual performance metrics like contrast sensitivity and glare recovery.

Other names

Macular pigment optical densityRetinal carotenoidsLutein and zeaxanthin complexMacula lutea pigment

Absorption of high-energy blue light (400-500 nm) and quenching of reactive oxygen species to prevent photo-oxidative damage to the retina.