Effects of black currants anthocyanins on hemodynamics of aqueous humor and peripheral blood circulation

Abstract

Purpose: In our previous studies, we demonstrated the beneficial effects that black currant anthocyanins (BCACs) have on glaucomatous optic neuropathy (GON) through their possible mechanisms toward reactivity to endothelin-1 (ET-1). The purpose of the current study is to examine the influence of BCACs on peripheral blood circulation as well as aqueous humor (AH) circulation.Methods: In our examination of peripheral blood circulation, responses toward finger cooling stimulation were monitored by a thermography in 8 healthy subjects receiving one time administration of BCACs (130 mg) and 5 separate subjects receiving BCACs daily (50 mg/day) for one week. To examine aqueous humor (AH) circulation, AH outflow resistance or AH production was evaluated by means of a Weight on-off test at baseline and again at week 1, 2 or 3 of BCACs administration.Results: Compared to pre-administration, recovery of the surface temperature of the middle finger was achieved more rapidly after both the one time BCAC intake and when they were administered over 7 days. Upon administration of BCACs for three weeks, the IOP drop rate and IOP recovery time increased and shortened, respectively.Conclusions: Our present results indicate that BCACs intake effectively suppresses cold-induced vasospasms and modulates AH circulation by a possible ET-1 mediated mechanism.