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Lifestyle, Diet and Nutraceuticals in the Management of Age-Related Diseases of the Eye: Where Are We Now?

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A special issue of Nutrients (ISSN 2072-6643). This special issue belongs to the section "Clinical Nutrition".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (25 January 2022) | Viewed by 25954

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Special Issue Editors

Dr. Luca Agnifili

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Guest Editor

Clinica Oftalmologica, Centro Nazionale di Alta Tecnologia in Oftalmologia, Centro di Eccellenza in Oftalmologia, Università G. d’Annunzio Chieti – Pescara. Campus Universitario, via dei Vestini, 66100 Chieti (CH), Italy
Interests: eye Diseases; glaucoma; optical coherence tomography; OCT; cataract surgery; retina; eyes; retinal diseases; clinical ophthalmology; macular degeneration

Dr. Matteo Sacchi

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Guest Editor

Head of Glaucoma Service, University Eye Clinic, San Giuseppe Hospital, University of Milan, Via San Vittore 12, 20123 Milan, Italy
Interests: glaucoma high tech diagnosis and management; medical anti glaucoma therapy; glaucoma surgery; mini invasive glaucoma surgery; glaucoma valve implant; childhood glaucoma

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are pleased to announce the upcoming Special Issue “Lifestyle, Diet, and Nutraceuticals in the Management of Age-Related Diseases of the Eye: Where Are We Now?”

Because of the global population growth and aging observed in recent decades, the trends of prevalence of age-related eye diseases (AREDS) are progressively rising. By 2050, the Global Burden of Disease Study predicts that 61 million people will be blind, and 474 million will have moderate and severe vision impairment.

The most common vision-threatening AREDS are represented by glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy, which are responsible for irreversible forms of low vision or blindness. Learning more about the impact that a healthy lifestyle, with a regular physical activity and a health-oriented diet, and nutraceutical supplementations may have on the natural history of AREDS can contribute to clarify whether these approaches could really support standardized medical and surgical interventions in improving their management and preserving vision.

We warmly welcome short communications, original research articles, and review articles for this Special Issue.

Dr. Luca Agnifili
Dr. Matteo Sacchi
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Nutrients is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

lifestyle
diet
nutraceutics
eye
aging
glaucoma
diabetic retinopathy
age-related macular degeneration
cataract

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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12 pages, 1100 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Citicoline/Coenzyme Q10/Vitamin B3 Fixed Combination Exerts Synergistic Protective Effects on Neuronal Cells Exposed to Oxidative Stress

by Leonardo Mastropasqua, Luca Agnifili, Claudio Ferrante, Matteo Sacchi, Michele Figus, Gemma Caterina Maria Rossi, Lorenza Brescia, Raffaella Aloia and Giustino Orlando

Nutrients 2022, 14(14), 2963; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14142963 - 20 Jul 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2751

Abstract

Background: The present study aimed to investigate the rationale and efficacy of using a citicoline, coenzyme Q10 (CAVAQ10) and vitamin B3 fixed combination in combating inflammation and oxidation in neuronal cells exposed to oxidative stress. Methods: HypoE22 cells and isolated hypothalamic specimens were selected as in vitro models to conduct the experiments. The efficacy of citicoline, CAVAQ10, and vitamin B3, with their fixed combination, were assayed after the exposure of hypothalamic cells to hydrogen peroxide (concentration range 1 nM–10 µM), in order to evaluate the biocompatibility of treatments. The activity of neuroprotective and pro-inflammatory factors, namely, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), involved in the neuronal cell damage in neurodegenerative diseases, were assayed in isolated hypothalamus. Results: Neither citicoline, CAVAQ10, nor vitamin B3 significantly altered hypothalamic cell viability, thus suggesting the biocompatibility of single ingredients and fixed combination in the concentration range considered for the study. In the same condition, citicoline and CAVAQ10 were also effective in reducing the gene expression of monoaminoxidase-B, involved in dopamine degradation. However, only citicoline demonstrated an ability to reduce dopamine levels. Conversely, all compounds were effective in reducing the gene expression of IL-6, and TNFα, and in inducing the gene expression of BDNF, with the co-administration of citicoline/CAVAQ10/vitamin B3 being generally more effective than single ingredients. Conclusions: The present findings support the beneficial and synergistic effects of citicoline, CAVAQ10, and vitamin B3 in fixed combination in reducing inflammation and oxidation, and in stimulating neurotrophin production in neuronal cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lifestyle, Diet and Nutraceuticals in the Management of Age-Related Diseases of the Eye: Where Are We Now?)

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15 pages, 2128 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Protective Effects of Spirulina maxima against Blue Light-Induced Retinal Damages in A2E-Laden ARPE-19 Cells and Balb/c Mice

by Hye-Mi Cho, Ye-Dam Jo and Se-Young Choung

Nutrients 2022, 14(3), 401; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14030401 - 18 Jan 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3238

Abstract

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a significant visual impairment in older people, and there is no treatment for dry AMD. Spirulina maxima (S. maxima), a cyanobacterium, has inhibitory effects against oxidative stress. However, the protective effects of S. maxima and its underlying mechanisms on blue light (BL)-caused macular degeneration are unknown. We aimed to investigate the protective effects of S. maxima on blue light-caused retinal damage and demonstrate its underlying mechanisms in human retinal pigment epithelial (ARPE-19) cells and Balb/c retinas. Additionally, the active component of S. maxima was examined in the RPE cells. In vitro, S. maxima decreased BL-induced RPE cell death by inhibiting reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. S. maxima inhibited BL-induced inflammation via regulating the NF-κB pathway, inflammatory-related gene expression, and the apoptosis pathway in RPE cells. In vivo, administration of S. maxima inhibited BL-induced retinal degeneration by restoring the thicknesses of whole retina, ONL (outer nuclear layer), INL (inner nuclear layer), and PL (photoreceptor layer) by BL exposure. Phycocyanin exerted protective effects in the pre-and post-treatment system. Therefore, S. maxima could be a potential nutraceutical approach to intercept the patho-physiological processes leading to dry AMD and advancement to wet AMD. Moreover, phycocyanin was a major active compound of S. maxima. These findings need to be investigated in human studies, particularly through a clinical trial. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lifestyle, Diet and Nutraceuticals in the Management of Age-Related Diseases of the Eye: Where Are We Now?)

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9 pages, 612 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Pilot, Phase II, Observational, Case-Control, 1-Month Study on Asthenopia in Video Terminal Operators without Dry Eye: Contrast Sensitivity and Quality of Life before and after the Oral Consumption of a Fixed Combination of Zinc, L-Carnitine, Extract of Elderberry, Currant and Extract of Eleutherococcus.

by Gemma Caterina Maria Rossi, Luigia Scudeller, Federica Bettio and Giovanni Milano

Nutrients 2021, 13(12), 4449; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13124449 - 13 Dec 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2887

Abstract

The aims of the study were to investigate the ability and effectiveness of an oral intake of a fixed combination of zinc, L-carnitine, elderberry extract, black currant and Eleutherococcus extract in controlling the symptoms of eyestrain in videoterminal (VDT) users and to record its effects on contrast sensitivity. A single-center, phase II, observational, case-control, 1-month study in VDT workers without dry eye disease was carried out. Demographics and number of actual hours at VDT/day were taken into account. All subjects underwent a complete ophthalmic examination, including assessment of contrast sensitivity, and completed the computer vision symptom scale questionnaire at baseline and one month later. A total of 30 Caucasian subjects adhered to the required inclusion criteria and completed the study; 15 subjects were treated (T) and 15 were controls (C). All clinical data at baseline were similar in both groups (p > 0.05): after one month, all subjects had stable visual acuity, refractive defect and intraocular pressure (IOP); screen exposure time was unchanged. Regarding symptoms, at randomization, the groups had a similar score: 33.1 ± 3.3 in T and 32.8 ± 5.6 in C. One month later, the computer vision symptom scale (CVSS) questionnaire score decreased by −14.1 ± 3, 1 (p = 0.000) and −2.3 ± 1.8 (p = 0.568), respectively. Regarding contrast sensitivity, in group C the values of spatial frequencies remained unchanged, while they improved in almost all the cycles per degree stimuli in the treated group. Oral intake of a fixed combination of zinc, L-carnitine, elderberry extract, black currant and eleutherococcus extract can significantly improve contrast sensitivity and symptoms in VDT workers with no signs of dry eye disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lifestyle, Diet and Nutraceuticals in the Management of Age-Related Diseases of the Eye: Where Are We Now?)

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Review

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20 pages, 1656 KiB

Open AccessReview

Arterial Hypertension and the Hidden Disease of the Eye: Diagnostic Tools and Therapeutic Strategies

by Rita Del Pinto, Giuseppe Mulè, Maria Vadalà, Caterina Carollo, Santina Cottone, Claudia Agabiti Rosei, Carolina De Ciuceis, Damiano Rizzoni, Claudio Ferri and Maria Lorenza Muiesan

Nutrients 2022, 14(11), 2200; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14112200 - 25 May 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2793

Abstract

Hypertension is a major cardiovascular risk factor that is responsible for a heavy burden of morbidity and mortality worldwide. A critical aspect of cardiovascular risk estimation in hypertensive patients depends on the assessment of hypertension-mediated organ damage (HMOD), namely the generalized structural and functional changes in major organs induced by persistently elevated blood pressure values. The vasculature of the eye shares several common structural, functional, and embryological features with that of the heart, brain, and kidney. Since retinal microcirculation offers the unique advantage of being directly accessible to non-invasive and relatively simple investigation tools, there has been considerable interest in the development and modernization of techniques that allow the assessment of the retinal vessels’ structural and functional features in health and disease. With the advent of artificial intelligence and the application of sophisticated physics technologies to human sciences, consistent steps forward have been made in the study of the ocular fundus as a privileged site for diagnostic and prognostic assessment of diverse disease conditions. In this narrative review, we will recapitulate the main ocular imaging techniques that are currently relevant from a clinical and/or research standpoint, with reference to their pathophysiological basis and their possible diagnostic and prognostic relevance. A possible non pharmacological approach to prevent the onset and progression of retinopathy in the presence of hypertension and related cardiovascular risk factors and diseases will also be discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lifestyle, Diet and Nutraceuticals in the Management of Age-Related Diseases of the Eye: Where Are We Now?)

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19 pages, 413 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Effect of Diet and Lifestyle on the Course of Diabetic Retinopathy—A Review of the Literature

by Anna Bryl, Małgorzata Mrugacz, Mariusz Falkowski and Katarzyna Zorena

Nutrients 2022, 14(6), 1252; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14061252 - 16 Mar 2022

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 6020

Abstract

Diabetes is a major social problem. As shown by epidemiological studies, the world incidence of diabetes is increasing and so is the number of people suffering from its complications. Therefore, it is important to determine possible preventive tools. In the prevention of diabetic retinopathy, it is essential to control glycemia, lipid profile and blood pressure. This can be done not only by pharmacological treatment, but first of all by promoting a healthy lifestyle, changing dietary habits and increasing physical activity. In our work, we present a review of the literature to show that physical exercise and an adequate diet can significantly reduce the risk of diabetes and diabetic retinopathy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lifestyle, Diet and Nutraceuticals in the Management of Age-Related Diseases of the Eye: Where Are We Now?)

11 pages, 314 KiB

Open AccessReview

Nutritional and Metabolic Imbalance in Keratoconus

by Romina Mayra Lasagni Vitar, Filippo Bonelli, Paolo Rama and Giulio Ferrari

Nutrients 2022, 14(4), 913; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14040913 - 21 Feb 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4406

Abstract

Keratoconus (KC) is a progressive corneal degeneration characterized by structural changes consisting of progressive thinning and steepening of the cornea. These alterations result in biomechanical weakening and, clinically, in vision loss. While the etiology of KC has been the object of study for over a century, no single agent has been found. Recent reviews suggest that KC is a multifactorial disease that is associated with a wide variety of genetic and environmental factors. While KC is typically considered a disease of the cornea, associations with systemic conditions have been well described over the years. In particular, nutritional and metabolic imbalance, such as the redox status, hormones, metabolites, and micronutrients (vitamins and metal ions), can deeply influence KC initiation and progression. In this paper, we comprehensively review the different nutritional (vitamins and minerals) and metabolic (hormones and metabolites) factors that are altered in KC, discussing their possible implication in the pathophysiology of the disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lifestyle, Diet and Nutraceuticals in the Management of Age-Related Diseases of the Eye: Where Are We Now?)

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14 pages, 1034 KiB

Open AccessReview

Understanding Neurodegeneration from a Clinical and Therapeutic Perspective in Early Diabetic Retinopathy

by Serena Fragiotta, Maria D. Pinazo-Durán and Gianluca Scuderi

Nutrients 2022, 14(4), 792; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14040792 - 14 Feb 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2838

Abstract

Recent evidence indicates that neurodegeneration is a critical element of diabetic retinopathy (DR) pathogenesis. The neuronal cells’ apoptosis contributes to microvascular impairment and blood–retinal barrier breakdown. Therefore, neurodegeneration represents an early intervention target to slow and prevent the development of microvascular alterations visible on clinical examination. Multimodal imaging features and functional assessment can permit the identification of neuronal damage in a subclinical stage before the recognition of DR signs. Clinical features of neurodegeneration are crucial in identifying patients at high risk of developing a vascular impairment and, thus, serve as outcome measures to understand the efficacy of supplementation. The optimal approach for targeting neurodegeneration contemplates the use of topical compounds that possibly act on different elements of the pathogenic cascade. To date, clinical trials available on humans tested three different topical agents, including brimonidine, somatostatin, and citicoline, with promising results. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lifestyle, Diet and Nutraceuticals in the Management of Age-Related Diseases of the Eye: Where Are We Now?)

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