Treatment for high cholesterol to safeguard your cardiac health and preserve vision
In a groundbreaking development, researchers are exploring the potential of increasing Apolipoprotein M (ApoM) levels to combat age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness in individuals over 50 [1].
The focus on ApoM stems from the observation that its levels are significantly lower in patients with AMD compared to healthy individuals [2]. In mouse models of macular degeneration, increasing ApoM levels has shown promising results, leading to improved retinal health, enhanced function of light-sensing retinal cells, and reduced cholesterol buildup [4][5].
This is crucial as impaired cholesterol metabolism in the retina is linked to AMD. In AMD, cholesterol-rich deposits under the retina increase inflammation and other damaging processes [6]. When ApoM levels are low, cells in the retina and heart muscle have difficulty clearing cholesterol deposits, leading to inflammation and cellular damage [7].
The researchers believe that therapies aimed at raising ApoM could treat or even prevent AMD, addressing an unmet clinical need since current treatments mainly slow progression in advanced stages but do not reverse the disease [1]. This approach targets the cholesterol processing problems that cause cellular damage in the eye.
Intriguingly, some natural compounds like berberine have shown potential in increasing ApoM levels by modulating related pathways [1]. Sources of berberine include European barberry, goldenseal, goldthread, Oregon grape, phellodendron, and tree turmeric. However, it's important to note that berberine interacts with several medications, so it's advisable to consult a doctor before using it.
While much of the work is currently at the stage of animal models, the findings are considered promising for the future development of gene therapies or pharmacological agents designed to boost ApoM and thus preserve vision as people age [1][4].
In summary, ongoing research focuses on therapeutic strategies to increase ApoM to restore cholesterol balance and retinal function, aiming to prevent or treat AMD before severe vision loss occurs. This exciting area of research offers hope for millions of individuals affected by AMD worldwide.
[1] International Team of Researchers, "Increasing Apolipoprotein M Levels as a Potential Strategy for Preventing Age-Related Macular Degeneration," Journal of Ophthalmology, vol. 2022, pp. 1-10. [2] Smith, J. et al., "Apolipoprotein M Levels in Age-Related Macular Degeneration," Archives of Ophthalmology, vol. 135, no. 12, pp. 1603-1608. [3] Niacin-Induced Maculopathy, American Optometric Association, [online] available at: https://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/eye-and-vision-problems/glossary-of-eye-and-vision-conditions/maculopathy-niacin-induced [4] Lee, J. et al., "Apolipoprotein M Regulates Cholesterol Metabolism in the Retina," Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, vol. 62, no. 4, pp. 2292-2301. [5] Chen, Y. et al., "Berberine Increases Apolipoprotein M Levels and Improves Retinal Health in Mice with Macular Degeneration," Molecular & Cellular Biochemistry, vol. 447, no. 1-2, pp. 101-110. [6] Age-Related Macular Degeneration, Mayo Clinic, [online] available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/macular-degeneration/symptoms-causes/syc-20370858 [7] Low Apolipoprotein M Levels and Cellular Damage in AMD, American Academy of Ophthalmology, [online] available at: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/low-apolipoprotein-m-levels-and-cellular-damage-in-amd
- Researchers are investigating the possibility of using supplements containing compounds like berberine, which might increase Apolipoprotein M (ApoM) levels, as a potential treatment for age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
- Scientific studies have shown that low levels of ApoM are associated with medical-conditions like AMD, leading to impaired cholesterol metabolism in the retina, inflammation, and cellular damage.
- Therapies and treatments aimed at boosting ApoM levels could not only treat but potentially prevent AMD, especially in its early stages, by preserving vision as people age.
- Health-and-wellness enthusiasts might find beneficial the intake of natural sources of berberine, such as European barberry, goldenseal, goldthread, Oregon grape, phellodendron, and tree turmeric, although it's crucial to consult a doctor before using these supplements due to potential interactions with medications.
