Lutein and zeaxanthin attenuates VEGF-induced neovascularisation in human retinal microvascular endothelial cells through a Nox4-dependent pathway.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (DR) are two of the most common and severe causes of vision loss in the population. Both conditions are associated with excessive levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the eye which results in an increase in the formation of new blood vessels through a process called neovascularisation. As such, anti-VEGF therapies are currently utilised as a treatment for patients with AMD however they are associated with painful administration of injections and potential degeneration of healthy endothelium.