Photosynthesis Successfully Demonstrated
in Mouse Eye Cells Using the LEAF Nano-System
¨
Researchers demonstrated
photosynthesis in mouse eye cells using plant-derived chloroplast structures
and a synthetic nano-system called LEAF (Light-driven Engineered Artificial
Thylakoid Factory).
¨
The study was published
in the journal Cell in May 2026.
¨
The experiment involved
mammalian corneal cells exposed to ambient light.
¨
LEAF is a plant-derived
nano-system designed to function as a temporary neo-organelle inside mammalian
cells.
¨
It incorporates
components derived from spinach.
¨
Under light exposure, LEAF
generates ATP and NADPH, molecules essential for cellular energy transfer and
redox balance.
¨
Photosynthesis is the
process by which plants, algae, and certain bacteria convert light energy into
chemical energy.
¨
In this experiment,
chloroplast-derived structures were introduced into mouse eye cells.
¨
The treated cells
produced biologically useful molecules when exposed to light.
¨
The study explored LEAF
as a light-powered therapeutic strategy for inflammatory eye disorders.
¨ Particular attention was
given to Dry Eye Disease, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca.
¨ In preclinical trials
involving mice with dry eye disease, LEAF therapy successfully reversed corneal
damage.
¨
The treatment doubled
tear-film stability.
¨ LEAF outperformed several standard clinical medications used for the condition.
¨ The research highlights the potential of light-driven bioengineering approaches for treating eye diseases and advancing regenerative medicine.
