Aging, Oxidative Stress, And Cataracts: Therapeutic Prospects And Translational Insights Into Peroxiredoxin 6
Cataracts, a leading cause of vision loss, are often a consequence of aging and damage to eye lens cells. This damage is frequently linked to “oxidative stress,” which occurs when there’s an imbalance between harmful unstable molecules, called reactive oxygen species (ROS), and the body’s ability to neutralize them. Think of ROS as tiny, aggressive particles that can harm your cells, similar to how rust damages metal.
Fortunately, our bodies have natural defenses. One such defense in the eye lens is a protein called peroxiredoxin 6 (Prdx6). This protein acts like a cellular shield, protecting the lens from the damaging effects of these reactive oxygen species and helping to maintain overall cell health.
As we age, or when our eyes are exposed to excessive oxidative stress, the effectiveness of this protective protein can decline. This decline can lead to the accumulation of damage in the lens, eventually contributing to the clouding characteristic of cataracts.
Recent insights suggest that boosting the activity of this crucial protective protein could be a game-changer. By finding ways to enhance peroxiredoxin 6, we might be able to better protect the eye lens, potentially delaying or even preventing the development of age-related cataracts. Researchers are exploring natural compounds and other therapeutic approaches that could activate this protein, offering new hope for maintaining clear vision as we get older.
Source: link to paper