Scientists have discovered that certain species of sharks, such as the bull shark, possess evolutionary mechanisms that protect their vision from age-related degeneration throughout their lives.
Research has shown that the retina of these sharks contains a high level of a special substance — squalene, which acts as an antioxidant, absorbs harmful blue light waves, and reduces oxidative stress — one of the main causes of retinal cell damage in humans, including age-related macular degeneration.
Additionally, unique crystallins — proteins that maintain transparency for decades — have been found in the eye lens of sharks.
Understanding these biochemical adaptations opens new avenues for the prevention and treatment of eye diseases in humans. Scientists are working on creating artificial antioxidants based on squalene and studying ways to stabilize lens proteins to prevent the development of cataracts.
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