New Study Reveals CyanthOx™ As Promising Natural Shield Against Retinal Oxidative Damage

YANGLING, CHINA – Researchers from the College of Food Science and Engineering at Northwest A&F University have published a groundbreaking study in Food Science & Nutrition sheds light on the protective effects of CyanthOx™ (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) proanthocyanidins (SBP) against oxidative damage in retinal cells. Sea buckthorn, known for its rich nutritional profile containing over 190 bioactive substances, has gained increasing attention for its potential therapeutic applications. Among these active components, proanthocyanidins are particularly renowned for their strong antioxidant properties, cardiovascular benefits, and anti-aging effects.

Study Overview

This innovative study highlights the beneficial role of sea buckthorn proanthocyanidins as a potent natural antioxidant that provides robust protection against retinal oxidative damage. The research suggests that SBP could serve as a promising candidate for the prevention or treatment of oxidative stress-related retinal diseases such as AMD and diabetic retinopathy, providing new insights and potential therapeutic strategies for future retinal health management.

Key Findings:

The research conducted by the Northwest A&F University in China, in collaboration with Puredia Limited, aimed to elucidate the protective mechanism of SBP in adult retinal pigment epithelial cell line-19 (ARPE-19) subjected to oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). The researchers successfully established an oxidative stress model using 600 µmol/L H₂O₂, leading to significant cell damage and increased oxidative markers.

Their findings demonstrated that treatment with SBP effectively reduced oxidative damage in ARPE-19 cells by significantly decreasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, lowering malondialdehyde (MDA) content (an indicator of lipid peroxidation), and restoring the antioxidant defense mechanisms of cells, including superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and glutathione (GSH) content.

Moreover, SBP treatment significantly improved cell viability, restored normal cell morphology, and enhanced the migration and repair capabilities of damaged retinal cells. The optimal protective effect was observed at an SBP concentration of 100 µg/mL, which was effective for protecting retinal cells from oxidative stress.

The researchers also investigated the underlying molecular mechanisms. Their results showed that SBP significantly reduced apoptosis-related proteins (Bax and caspase-3), elevated anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2 expression, and activated the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway, a critical antioxidant defense pathway in cells.

Mitochondrial dysfunction is commonly observed in oxidative-damaged retinal cells. The study revealed that SBP could effectively restore mitochondrial morphology, maintain mitochondrial quantity, improve mitochondrial permeability, and reduce mitochondrial swelling, thus protecting mitochondrial function and ultimately enhancing cell survival.

About CyanthOx™

CyanthOx™ is a polyphenol-rich extract from the ancient sea buckthorn plant, including proanthocyanidins and flavonoids. Grown on the Tibetan Plateau, this unique blend is designed to dramatically reverse aging by enhancing cellular regeneration, boosting mitochondrial function, and providing superior antioxidant protection compared to traditional extracts. Ideal for combatting oxidative stress and aging, CyanthOx™ promotes overall cellular health and longevity.

About Puredia

Puredia is a global leader in the supply of organic, innovative, and clinically tested nutritional ingredients, specializing in the cultivation and development of Sea Buckthorn products. Established by Dr. Hywel Yuen, Puredia upholds rigorous international certification standards, including USDA, EU, Canada, and China Organic certifications, alongside Halal and Kosher accreditations. The company is distinguished by its robust commitment to scientific research, ensuring the highest levels of efficacy and safety in its offerings. Puredia's dedication to sustainability and social responsibility is evident in its management of organic-certified farms located on the Tibetan Plateau and its contributions to local communities, particularly in enhancing educational opportunities for children in surrounding areas.