The Supportive Role of Plant-Based Substances in AMD Treatment and Their Potential

Abstract

There is growing interest in the use of natural plant-derived compounds, such as polyphenols (including curcumin), flavonoids, silymarin, anthocyanins, lutein, and zeaxanthin, for the treatment of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). These substances exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and protective effects on retinal cells, contributing to the preservation of retinal integrity by modulating the key pathogenic mechanisms of AMD, including oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and pathological neovascularization. Consequently, they hold potential to support conventional therapeutic approaches and slow disease progression. Current studies highlight their promising role as adjunctive agents in AMD management. This literature review provides a comprehensive analysis of the potential role of the aforementioned natural plant-derived compounds in the prevention and supportive treatment of age-related macular degeneration. It also discusses their natural sources, modes of administration and supplementation, and highlights the importance of a nutrient-rich diet as a key factor in maintaining ocular health. Furthermore, the review synthesizes current scientific knowledge on the ability of natural antioxidants to slow the progression of AMD and outlines future research directions aimed at improving diagnostic methods and developing more effective preventive and therapeutic strategies.

Keywords: age-related macular degeneration; genetic background of AMD; plant-derived substances used in the treatment of AMD.

Figure 1

Schematic representation of the key processes contributing to the pathogenesis of AMD. The upward arrow (↑) indicates increased levels or expression.

Figure 2

Modulatory effects of selected flavonoids on key biochemical pathways involved in age-related macular degeneration. The upward arrow (↑) indicates increased levels or expression, while the downward arrow (↓) denotes decreased levels or expression.

Figure 3

A schematic representation of the article identification, screening, and inclusion process used in this systematic review.