Protective effect of crocin against the declining of high spatial frequency-based visual performance in mice

Abstract

The high spatial frequency-based vision was primary on cone rich macular vision. Crocin is a major bioactive constituent of saffron (Crocus sativus L. flowers) and gardenia fruit (Gardenia spp.), which has powerful antioxidant capacities in retina. The study aim to evaluate the influence of crocin on visual performance in light-damaged mouse retinas in vivo. The visual acuity (VA), and visual contrast sensitivity function (VCSF) were measured by the behavioral optomotor reflex method. The histological changes of retinas were monitored. Both VA and VCSF declines, and that accompanied by Müller cell hypertrophic gliosis and cone cellular damage were detected in the vehicle groups. Prophylactic crocin treated groups improved VA and VCSF on sensitive to high spatial frequency, protected retinal integrity and Müller cells, and modulated the cellular function of cone. This study provides the potential use of crocin to ameliorate the visual performance due to its anti-photodamage and cytoprotective effects.