Lutein (L) and zeaxanthin (Z) levels in retina are related to levels in the brain

Background L and Z, cross the blood brain barrier to form macular pigment (MP) in the eye. MP can be measured non‐invasively in humans. Among the carotenoids, L and Z are preferentially taken up in to brain tissue. Purpose To evaluate the relationship between L and Z levels in primate retina and brain sections. Methods Matched retina (4 mm macular punch) and brain sections from two groups of rhesus monkeys on a lifetime diet that was free of carotenoids, except for either L or Z, were analyzed with standard lipid extractions and reverse phase HPLC. Spearman correlations were performed using SYSTAT. Directional p values <0.10 are reported and values <0.050 were considered significant. Results L and Z levels in retina were significantly correlated with their respective levels in the cerebellum. There was a trend for such a relationship in the occipital cortex (p <0.055). Z level in the frontal cortex and pons were also significantly related to Z levels in the retina (see table). Conclusions MP can be used as a biomarker of L and Z contained in primate brain tissue. Support:USDA#581950‐7‐07; DSM