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AcrySof Natural filter decreases blue light-induced apoptosis in human retinal pigment epithelium.

Rezai KA, Gasyna E, Seagle BL, Norris JR, Rezaei KA

Department of Ophthalmology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA, karezaei@yahoo.com.

PURPOSE: The effect of AcrySof filter (UV light-filtering chromophore; Alcon) and AcrySof Natural filter (UV- and blue light-filtering chromophores) on blue light-induced apoptosis in human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells was evaluated. DESIGN: Laboratory investigation CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Acrysof Natural filter reduces the blue-light toxicity in RPE cells and may have a positive impact on age-related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS: RPE cells were exposed to blue light (430-450 nm) in the presence of either the AcrySof (UV only) filter or Acrysof Natural (UV and blue light) filter for 10 days. The rate of apoptosis was analyzed. RESULTS: Blue light induced significant apoptosis in RPE cells. AcrySof Natural filter significantly reduced the blue light-induced apoptosis when compared to AcrySof filter. The amount of blue-light energy reaching the cells with the AcrySof filter was 4.25 mW/cm(2) and with the AcrySof Natural filter was 2.5 mW/cm(2). CONCLUSIONS: AcrySof Natural filter significantly reduced blue light-induced apoptosis. This was most likely due to its filtering effect on blue wavelength light, which reduces the energy that reaches the cells. In patients with cataract who are at a high risk for AMD, the implantation of a blue light-filtering intraocular lens may be considered.

Published 8 April 2008 in Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol, 246(5): 671-6.
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