The efficiency of lutein and zeaxanthin in Zea mays Linn. on protecting human corneal epithelial cells from photo-oxidative damage

Abstract

Oxidative damage plays a vital role in the pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Lutein and zeaxanthin reduce phototoxic damage to the human eye and this supplementation of these carotenoids has a protective effect against photoinduced damage to the lens and the retina. This study aimed to demonstrate the protective effects and antioxidation properties of some lutein and zeaxanthin in Zea mays Linn. against the UVA-induced oxidative damage to human corneal epithelial cells (HEC). The antioxidant potential of lutein and zeaxanthin in Zea mays Linn. was evaluated by measuring DPPH assay. Cell viability was determined by MTT assay. Levels of malonyldialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) were measured. The results showed that the IC50 values of Trolox (the positive control) and the Zea mays Linn. extracts associated with DPPH radical scavenging activity were 0.01 and 5.91 mg/mL, respectively. The UVA radiation significantly induced oxidative stress to reduce viability of HEC cells. The Zea mays Linn. extract significantly ameliorated UVA-induced oxidative damage by decreasing MDA concentration and increasing antioxidant enzymes activities (SOD and CAT). This suggests that lutein and zeaxanthin in Zea mays Linn. are effective in preventing UVA-induced damage in HEC cells and may be suitable as protective factors for the prevention of ocular damage.