What is Serrapeptase?
Serrapeptase, also known as serratiopeptidase, is a proteolytic enzyme that originated from the silkworm. Japanese researchers discovered this enzyme in the 1960s, initially for its ability to assist silkworms in dissolving their cocoons. Serrapeptase is produced by the non-pathogenic Enterobacterium Serratia E15, which lives in the silkworm intestines. Serrapeptase has gained recognition for its diverse therapeutic applications, particularly in the treatment of inflammation and pain.
Serrapeptase has received a lot of attention in recent years for its potential to help maintain and improve eye health. With the rising prevalence of eye conditions like age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, and diabetic retinopathy, the search for effective supplements and therapies is more important than ever. Serrapeptase, with its ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing, is a promising candidate for eye health. According to research, serrapeptase can help manage ocular inflammation and may improve overall vision by preserving the structural integrity and functionality of ocular tissues.
Inside Serrapeptase
Serrapeptase is a proteolytic enzyme, which means it degrades proteins into smaller peptides and amino acids. The enzyme has a molecular weight of approximately 60 kDa and is highly specific for cleaving peptide bonds containing hydrophobic amino acids. The enzyme’s active site is made up of a serine protease triad, which includes serine, histidine, and aspartate residues. This triad is essential for the enzyme’s catalytic activity, which allows it to hydrolyze peptide bonds efficiently.
Serrapeptase functions best at a pH of 7-8 and temperatures ranging from 30 to 50°C. Its stability and activity are affected by a variety of factors, including pH, temperature, and the presence of inhibitors or activators. Serrapeptase is known for its high resistance to degradation in the gastrointestinal tract, which is due to its protective enteric coating in supplement form. This ensures that the enzyme remains active when it reaches the small intestine and is absorbed into the bloodstream.
Serrapeptase has a high affinity for binding to alpha-2-macroglobulin, a plasma protein that transports it to different tissues in the body. This mechanism enables serrapeptase to act systemically, including in ocular tissues. The enzyme’s ability to degrade fibrin, a protein involved in blood clot formation, and its anti-inflammatory properties are critical to its therapeutic applications. Serrapeptase, which breaks down fibrin and other proteinaceous debris, can help reduce inflammation, edema, and scar tissue formation, all of which are important in maintaining eye health.
How Serrapeptase Can Benefit Your Eye Health?
Serrapeptase promotes vision and eye health through a variety of mechanisms, including inflammation, tissue repair, and cellular protection. Here, we investigate the key mechanisms and pathways by which serrapeptase improves vision and protects ocular health.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Inflammation is a common cause of many ocular conditions, including AMD, diabetic retinopathy, uveitis, and conjunctivitis. Serrapeptase has potent anti-inflammatory effects by degrading inflammatory mediators and proteins that cause tissue damage and edema. The enzyme’s ability to degrade fibrin, a key component of the inflammatory response, reduces swelling and improves blood flow to affected tissues.
Serrapeptase, by reducing inflammation, can alleviate symptoms such as redness, pain, and swelling associated with various eye conditions. This anti-inflammatory action is especially useful for chronic inflammatory diseases of the eye, where ongoing inflammation can cause progressive tissue damage and vision loss.
Reduction of Edema
Edema, or the buildup of excess fluid in tissues, is another common problem in ocular health. Conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusion frequently cause retinal edema, resulting in impaired vision. Serrapeptase reduces edema by breaking down exudates and proteinaceous debris that cause fluid accumulation. This enzymatic action promotes the drainage of excess fluid and relieves pressure on the retina.
Serrapeptase, which reduces edema, can help preserve retinal function and prevent vision loss. Improved fluid dynamics within the eye improves nutrient and oxygen delivery to ocular tissues, which benefits overall eye health.
Enhanced Wound Healing and Tissue Repair
Serrapeptase has been shown to speed up wound healing and tissue repair, which is critical for maintaining the integrity of ocular tissues. The enzyme accelerates the breakdown of necrotic tissue and aids in the removal of dead cells and debris. This cleansing action creates an environment that promotes new tissue growth and repair.
Serrapeptase can help with the recovery of injuries, surgeries, and infections in the eyes. By enhancing the body’s natural healing processes, the enzyme aids in the restoration of the eye’s normal structure and function, preventing complications such as scarring and chronic inflammation.
Protection from Oxidative Stress
Many eye diseases, including AMD and cataracts, are linked to oxidative stress. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by oxidative stress can harm cellular components, resulting in cell death and tissue degeneration. Serrapeptase’s anti-inflammatory properties indirectly help to reduce oxidative stress by lowering the levels of inflammatory mediators that can cause ROS production.
Furthermore, serrapeptase may improve the antioxidant defense mechanisms of the eye. While the enzyme does not have antioxidant properties, its role in reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair contributes to the balance of ROS production and antioxidant defenses. This protective effect is critical for the survival and functionality of retinal cells and other ocular structures.
Improved Blood Flow
Adequate blood flow is required to deliver oxygen and nutrients to ocular tissues and eliminate metabolic waste products. Conditions like diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma can impair ocular blood flow, resulting in tissue hypoxia and damage. Serrapeptase’s fibrinolytic activity promotes blood flow by dissolving fibrin clots and lowering blood viscosity.
Enhanced blood circulation ensures that the retina and other ocular tissues receive enough oxygen and nutrients to maintain cellular health and function. Improved blood flow also helps to remove toxins and metabolic waste products, which protects the eyes from further damage.
Potential Role in Treating Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of vision loss among older adults. The condition is distinguished by degeneration of the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for clear vision. Inflammation, oxidative stress, and abnormal blood vessel growth (in the case of wet AMD) all contribute to the progression of AMD.
Serrapeptase’s anti-inflammatory, anti-edema, and tissue repair properties make it a promising adjunct therapy for AMD treatment. Serrapeptase can slow the progression of macular degeneration by lowering inflammation and oxidative stress levels. Furthermore, its ability to improve blood flow and reduce abnormal blood vessel growth may provide additional benefits in maintaining central vision.
Support for Diabetic Retinopathy
Diabetic retinopathy is a common diabetes complication that causes damage to the retinal blood vessels. The condition can cause retinal swelling, hemorrhage, and vision loss. Diabetic retinopathy is primarily caused by inflammation and poor blood flow.
Serrapeptase’s ability to reduce inflammation, edema, and improve blood flow makes it an important tool for treating diabetic retinopathy. By alleviating these pathological processes, the enzyme protects retinal cells and preserves visual function. Improved wound healing and tissue repair also aid in the recovery of damaged retinal tissues, which benefits eye health.
Relief of Conjunctivitis and Uveitis
Conjunctivitis and uveitis are inflammatory conditions of the conjunctiva and uvea of the eye, respectively. These conditions can cause symptoms like redness, pain, swelling, and blurred vision. Serrapeptase’s anti-inflammatory and proteolytic properties aid in the reduction of inflammatory responses and the removal of proteinaceous debris linked to these conditions.
Serrapeptase can help reduce the symptoms of conjunctivitis and uveitis by decreasing inflammation and promoting tissue repair, thereby improving patient comfort and visual outcomes. The enzyme’s role in improving blood flow and nutrient delivery contributes to the healing process and promotes ocular health.
How To Use Serrapeptase
Serrapeptase comes in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, and enteric-coated pills, to ensure maximum absorption. The recommended daily dosage ranges between 10 mg and 60 mg, divided into one or two doses. For best results, take serrapeptase on an empty stomach, either 30 minutes before or two hours after eating. To ensure safe and effective use, always follow the manufacturer’s or your healthcare provider’s recommended dosage.
Side Effects and Considerations
While serrapeptase is generally well tolerated, potential side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Rarely, allergic reactions may occur, resulting in skin rashes or difficulty breathing. Individuals with bleeding disorders, those taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, and pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid serrapeptase due to increased risks. Always consult a healthcare professional before beginning any new supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
Trusted Resources
Books
- “Enzymes: The Fountain of Life” by Bernard Jensen, Dr. Donald R. Kelley, and Martin Zucker
- “The Miracle Enzyme” by Dr. R. Keith McCormick
