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Abstract
This study examined the relation of retinal and serum measures of lutein (L) and zeaxanthin (Z) to white matter integrity (WMI) in younger and older adults using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). As expected, age negatively predicted WMI globally and in the genu of the corpus callosum, cingulum, and uncinate fasciculus; however, L and Z were not significant predictors in these regions. Whole brain analysis revealed widespread associations between L and Z and WMI in the superior and inferior longitudinal fasciculi, inferior frontal-occipital fasciculus, internal and external capsules, anterior thalamic radiation, cingulum, body and splenium of the corpus callosum, cerebral peduncles, corticospinal tract, and corona radiata (p < .001, minimal voxel cluster = 8). Results are consistent with previous research demonstrating accumulation of L and Z in brain tissue. The relation of L and Z to WMI may explain one mechanism by which L and Z positively impact neurocognitive functioning.