This IS exciting news regarding macular degeneration...... Would be interesting to know if any studies have been, or will be, performed with GPLC (glycine-propionyl-L-carnitine),as it too specifically enhances the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria and facilitates removal of waste products. A study combining saffron and GPLC would be even more enlightening.

Another key player may be the coenzyme Q10(ubiquinone), with perhaps the advanced form (ubiquinol) more effective due to greater bioavailability. Alpha Lipoic acid may also enhance the effects of any/all of the above, with the more bioavailable form, R-lipoic Acid, the preferred form, based on enhanced antioxidant activity. High glutathione levels, possibly from N-acetyl-cysteine, also would seem to protect the cells in the eyes.

Anything that lowers homocysteine levels also would seem protective for the eyes. Could the methylation process have a role(SAM-E?)?

I believe an Italian firm, Sigma Tau,and/or researchers at the University of Rome, has done extensive research/studies, with encouraging results, regarding macular degeneration, utilizing COQ10, Fish Oil (omega-3 fatty acids) and acetyl-L-Carnitine(pre-GPLC?). Perhaps saffron could be added to the mix for new/combined research.

Another nutrient to consider may be Vitamin K-2,for its potential to prevent and even reverse calcium buildup in the blood vessels...along with enhancing clotting factor, reducing bleeding/leaking of capillaries. This may be particularly important in wet macular degeneration, as would nutrients which may strengthen blood vessels, such as resveratrol, bilberry and so forth.

Conversely something that "thins" the blood such as nattokinase may or may not be helpful. If the theory that hardening/blocked blood vessels contributes to macular degeneration is considered, then it would seem logical that something that reduces the cholesterol buildup/thins out the blood would be a good thing....but not if bleeding (or the propensity to bleed/leak) is present in the eyes.

Not to be overlooked also would be Vitamin D3, for its multi-faceted healing/protective effects,particularly since I believe deficiency has been linked to macular degeneration(Rutgers University?).

Lastly, I believe researchers at Vanderbilt University's Eye Institute have linked mitochodrial activity in the eyes to macular degeneration. Perhaps a collaboration/sharing of data could promote a breakthrough utilizing these most recent findings with saffron.

So as not to mislead, please note that I have no medical training whatsoever. Any/all of the above is best pursued/refuted/discussed by those qualified to do so. I welcome their comments and THANK YOU Professor Bisti and colleagues..KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK.