Vitamin C necessary for retinal cell function

Vitamin C is necessary for retinal cells to function properly and researchers believe that vitamin C plays a vital role in the proper functioning of the brain as well. A study conducted by researchers at the Oregon Health & Science University detailing the findings of the study was published in the June 29, 2011 issue of the Journal of Neuroscience. Researchers discovered that GABA-type receptors in the retinal cells stop functioning properly when vitamin C is removed. Since retinal cells are type of brain cell that is very accessible, it is believed that GABA receptors located elsewhere in the brain also need vitamin C for proper functioning. Vitamin C is a natural antioxidant and researchers theorize that it 'preserves' the receptors and retinal cells from breaking down prematurely. While the function of vitamin C is not fully understood, researchers are hopeful that the study findings will prove beneficial in treating other diseases such as glaucoma and  epilepsy. Elise Ervin Staff Writer