Photosynthesis is a vital process that allows plants to live. Without it, most life on Earth would not survive. Mammals, like humans, cannot photosynthesize and must eat food. However, a new study has used a part of this process in mammal eye cells.
Scientists used light-harvesting particles from spinach in eye model studies. They aimed to use these particles to produce chemicals that help treat dry eye disease. Dry eye disease affects about 1.5 billion people globally and is difficult to manage. The eye, which constantly processes light, suffers from oxidative stress, causing damage that contributes to this disease.
The researchers created a tiny particle called LEAF from spinach chloroplasts. These particles were able to capture light. LEAF was tested in cells to see if it could restore chemical balance using the light. When exposed to light, these particles helped reduce cell inflammation.
The study has not yet been tested on humans, and researchers suggest it could become a treatment in the form of eye drops. This approach mimics a sea slug’s ability to use algae for photosynthesis. However, there are concerns about safety and possible immune reactions.
The research, published in the journal Cell, could lead to new treatments for dry eye disease. But moving from experimental stages to human trials is a major challenge.
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