Work

The relationship between the macular carotenoids and simulated visual range

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: It has been hypothesized (the visibility hypothesis) that macular pigment (MP) may improve vision through the atmosphere by absorbing "blue haze" (short-wave dominant light that veils distant targets). Past studies have shown other visual effects driven by screening short-wave light such as reducing on-axis glare and increasing chromatic contrast. This study tested the visibility hypothesis by assessing low-luminance targets under simulated blue haze conditions. Fifty-eight young healthy participants (N = 58; 18-28 years; average age = 20.45 ± 2.90, 73 % female, 33 % non-White) were measured. In each experimental session the intensity of simulated blue haze was varied while measuring the detectability of 3, 7.5, and 15 cycles-per-degree (cpd) sinusoidal gratings. MP optical density (MPOD) was measured using customized heterochromatic flicker photometry. MPOD was related to the amount of energy needed to veil the gratings at 3-cpd r (56) = 0.54, p < .001) and 7.5-cpd (r (56) = 0.36, p < .01) but not at 15-cpd (r (47) = -0.03, p = .86). Our data suggest MPOD enhances the ability to detect low and mid spatial frequency targets under blue haze conditions.

Source: Experimental Eye Research

DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2025.110708

Authors: Cameron J. Wysocky, Jacob B. Harth, Lisa M. Renzi-Hammond, Billy R. Hammond Jr

Institution: University of Georgia

Language: English

Topic: Visual perception and processing mechanisms

Subfield: Cognitive Neuroscience

Field: Neuroscience

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,010