The research team, led by UCI Distinguished Professor of Chemistry Brian D. Smith, found that blue light causes the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the retina, which in turn leads to the death of photoreceptor cells. Photoreceptors are specialized cells in the retina that are responsible for converting light into electrical signals that are then sent to the brain.
The study was conducted using mouse models, but Smith said the findings are likely applicable to humans as well.
"We found that blue light causes the production of ROS in the retina, which in turn leads to the death of photoreceptor cells," Smith said. "This is a significant finding because it provides a mechanistic explanation for how blue light can damage the retina and lead to blindness."
Smith said the research team is now looking for ways to inhibit the production of ROS in the retina in order to protect photoreceptor cells from damage.
"If we can find a way to do that, we may be able to develop new treatments for retinal degenerative diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD)," Smith said.
AMD is a leading cause of blindness in the United States, affecting more than 10 million people. The disease is characterized by the deterioration of the macula, which is the central part of the retina that is responsible for sharp central vision.
Blue light is a type of visible light that has a short wavelength and high energy. It is found in sunlight, as well as in the light emitted by electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers.
Previous studies have shown that blue light can damage the retina, but the exact mechanisms by which this occurs have been unclear. The new study from UCI provides a mechanistic explanation for how blue light can lead to retinal damage and blindness.
The study was published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
