Heart and vision-saving cholesterol treatment breakthrough uncovered
In a groundbreaking study led by researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, the role of apolipoprotein M (ApoM) in preventing or slowing the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is being explored [1][2].
The research reveals that AMD patients have significantly lower circulating ApoM levels, and increasing ApoM improves retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) function and reduces lipid accumulation linked to AMD progression [1][2]. This discovery addresses a major unmet need as current AMD treatments mostly target advanced stages and do not reverse disease progression [2][3].
The study suggests that ApoM works by carrying sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), which activates the S1P receptor 3 (S1PR3) on RPE cells. This activation stimulates the RPE’s lysosomal system to more effectively break down harmful lipid deposits [1]. The findings indicate that targeting the ApoM-S1P-S1PR3 pathway to enhance lysosomal lipid catabolism could be a novel therapeutic approach to slow or prevent AMD [1].
Natural compounds such as berberine may also play a part in increasing ApoM levels. Berberine is found in European barberry, goldenseal, goldthread, Oregon grape, phellodendron, and tree turmeric [4].
Interestingly, the use of niacin, a vitamin B3 found in foods such as yeast, milk, meat, and cereals, can have an adverse effect. Too much niacin can cause a rare toxic reaction called niacin-induced maculopathy [5].
The research, recently published in Nature Communications, is supported by independent analyses linking dysfunctional cholesterol processing with AMD pathology and cardiovascular disease [2]. Ongoing studies aim to further explore methods to boost ApoM levels and enhance the lysosomal degradation of retinal lipids via S1P signaling in RPE cells, potentially preventing early AMD progression and preserving vision [1][2][5].
- The discovery of lower circulating ApoM levels in AMD patients suggests a potential role for supplements containing ApoM in managing eye-health related to medical-conditions like AMD.
- The scientific community is intrigued by natural compounds like berberine, found in various plants, as they may help increase ApoM levels, contributing to health-and-wellness.
- However, it's crucial to be aware of the adverse effects of certain supplements, such as niacin, which can lead to eye health issues like niacin-induced maculopathy.
- Nutrition plays a significant role in maintaining eye health, as understanding the ApoM-S1P-S1PR3 pathway could lead to novel treatments for preventing or slowing AMD progression.
