Phototrop^® is a unique patented dietary supplement containing omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids , Acetyl-L-carnitine and Coenzyme Q₁₀ specifically formulated  to improve the metabolism of photoreceptor cells in the eye.

Visual functions depend on the integrity of complex structures, first and most important that of the retina. Light perception by photoreceptor cells in the retina, transformation of these signals to electric impulses and finally, their transmission to the brain are the key steps involved in vision. However, due to its complexity, the retina is particularly vulnerable to toxic by-products of cell-metabolism. These substances play a crucial role in the development of degenerative alterations, and their negative effects increase with age.

Most of the toxic substances are generated in the mitochondria. With aging, mitochondrial functions deteriorate, and subsequently energy production decreases. This mitochondrial dysfunction in the retina can result in a progressive deterioration of vision. Maintaining normal mitochondrial functions is vital for maintaining healthy vision.

Acetyl-L-carnitine, omega-3 and coenzyme Q₁₀ all play a fundamental role in mitochondrial functions. Together they contribute to maintaining normal retinal cell-metabolism and to decreasing the production of toxic metabolic by-products.

Phototrop^® is clinically proven to improve visual functions.  A controlled pilot study in patients suffering from early AMD (age-related macular degeneration) showed an improvement and subsequent stabilization of visual functions in the group treated with the metabolic compounds in Phototrop^® while a slow impairment was seen in the control group.

A randomized, placebo-controlled, double blind, clinical trial on the efficacy of Phototrop^®, in a group of 106 patients affected by early AMD showed a clinically and statistically significant improvement in visual field and visual acuity in the treated group while all the same parameters worsened  in the placebo treated group.

Each Phototrop^® softgel capsule contains 100 mg of acetyl-L-carnitine, 750 mg of fish oil, and 10 mg of Coenzyme Q₁₀.  Suggested use is 1-2 capsules per day preferably with meals.

Phototrop^® active ingredients and their function:

Acetyl- L-carnitine (a derivative of L-carnitine) plays a vital role in mitochondrial functions and in cell membrane stabilization.

Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fatty acids that are essential for health, growth, and development.  They provide the building blocks of all cell membranes particularly mitochondrial membranes and photoreceptor membranes.  Omega-3 fatty acids cannot be made by the body, therefore they must be obtained either from food or  from supplements.

Coenzyme Q₁₀ (ubiquinone) is a vitamin like substance found in every cell of the body. Its primary function is to produce energy which is needed for cells to survive and function properly. In addition to its important role in energy production, coenzyme Q₁₀  is also a powerful liposoluble antioxidant.

Phototrop^® References

For more information about  Phototrop^® please consult the following web sites:

www.phototrop.com