anthocyanins

# Anthocyanins and Bilberry Extracts: Retinal Resilience and Aging Microvasculature The flavonoids **anthocyanins** (pigments in berries) have long been claimed to benefit eye health, and modern studies suggest they do concentrate in ocular and vascular tissues ([pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3429325/#:~:text=In%20addition%20to%20GBE%2C%20anthocyanins,22%2C19%7D%3B%20%283)). These compounds are powerful **antioxidants** and anti‐inflammatory agents: they scavenge free radicals, stabilize blood vessel walls, and even inhibit platelet aggregation and inflammatory mediators ([pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3429325/#:~:text=vascular%20tissues.,27)). In the retina – a high‐metabolism organ especially vulnerable to oxidative stress – anthocyanins from bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) may bolster the defense against aging and disease. ## Antioxidant and Anti‐Inflammatory Effects in the Retina Animal research confirms that bilberry anthocyanins protect retinal cells by enhancing antioxidant systems and damping inflammation. In a rabbit model of light‐induced retinal damage, oral bilberry extract (high in anthocyanins) **preserved retinal function and structure**. Treated rabbits showed higher levels of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, catalase) and total antioxidant capacity than controls, along with lower malondialdehyde (a marker of lipid oxidation) ([pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6332335/#:~:text=sacrificed%20on%20day%207,1%CE%B2%20and%20VEGF%29.%20Results)). At the same time, pro‐inflammatory and angiogenic signals such as interleukin‐1β and VEGF were suppressed ([pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6332335/#:~:text=sacrificed%20on%20day%207,1%CE%B2%20and%20VEGF%29.%20Results)). These changes indicate that bilberry anthocyanins can neutralize excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the retina and prevent the downstream inflammation that would otherwise damage retinal cells. In a mouse model of retinal inflammation (endotoxin‐induced uveitis), anthocyanin‐rich bilberry extract *preserved photoreceptor health*. Treated mice had better electroretinogram (ERG) responses (reflecting photoreceptor function) and intact photoreceptor outer segments compared to untreated mice. This protective effect was linked to blockade of inflammatory signaling (specifically, bilberry suppressed IL-6/STAT3 activation) and reduction of ROS‐driven NF-κB activation ([pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21894150/#:~:text=retina.%20Anthocyanin,Our%20findings%20indicate)). In short, bilberry anthocyanins curtailed the molecular cascade of inflammation and oxidative stress that would otherwise impair vision. Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) – the neurons whose axons form the optic nerve – also appear to benefit from anthocyanins. In a mouse optic nerve‐crush model (mimicking glaucoma‐like i

Anthocyanins and Bilberry Extracts: Retinal Resilience and Aging Microvasculature

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