Light-eye-body axis: exploring the network from retinal illumination to systemic regulation
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: The human body is an intricate system, where diverse and complex signaling among different organs sustains physiological activities. The eye, as a primary organ for information acquisition, not only plays a crucial role in visual perception but also, as increasing evidence suggests, exerts a broad influence on the entire body through complex circuits upon receiving light signals which is called non-image-forming vision. However, the extent and mechanisms of light's impact on the body through the eyes remain insufficiently explored. There is also a dearth of comprehensive reviews elucidating the intricate interplay between light, the eye, and the systemic connections to the entire body. Herein, we propose the concept of the light-eye-body axis to systematically encapsulate the extensive non-image-forming effects of light signals received by the retina on the entire body. We reviewed the visual-neural structure basis of the light-eye-body axis, summarized the mechanism by which the eyes regulate the whole body and the current research status and challenges within the physiological and pathological processes involved in the light-eye-body axis. Future research should aim to expand the influence of the light-eye-body axis and explore its deeper mechanisms. Understanding and investigating the light-eye-body axis will contribute to improving lighting conditions to optimize health and guide the establishment of phototherapy standards in clinical practice.
Source: Theranostics
DOI: 10.7150/thno.106589
Authors: Yi Zeng, Rong Rong, Mengling You, Peng Zhu, Jinglin Zhang, Xiaobo Xia
Language: English
Subfield: Endocrine and Autonomic Systems
Field: Neuroscience
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,671
OpenAlex ID: W4405963369