Formulation Optimization of Lonicera edulis Composite Powder and Its Protective Effect on H₂O₂-Damaged ARPE-19 Cells

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) was a retinal degenerative disease with increasing risk of morbidity with age, and retinal oxidative stress was one of the important triggers of AMD. This study was conducted in light of the favorable antioxidant properties of Lonicera edulis, which has been shown to possess significant potential in combating oxidative stress. The study's objective was to develop a functional Lonicera edulis composite powder (LCP) for the purpose of eye protection. To this end, the formulation was optimized through the utilization of response surface methodology. The study encompassed a comprehensive examination of the powder's physical properties, antioxidant capacity, and its protective effect on hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced oxidative stress injury in ARPE-19 cells. The findings demonstrated that, following response surface optimization, the most effective LCP formulation was as follows: Lonicera edulis lyophilized powder (material-liquid ratio 1:4, maltodextrin addition 15%):Lycium barbarum polysaccharide:lutein ester:zeaxanthin=81:15:3.33:0.67. The LCP exhibited favorable water solubility, robust antioxidant activity, and non-toxicity. In addition, it was observed to markedly diminish (P<0.05) the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in oxidatively damaged ARPE-19 cells and augment the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and other antioxidant enzymes. Furthermore, the LCP was found to stimulate cell proliferation. The cell survival rate of LCP at 800 μg/mL was 125.10%, which was 122.95% higher than that of the model group. The study demonstrated the efficacy of LCP in protecting retinal pigment epithelial cells and resisting oxidative stress damage, thereby establishing a theoretical foundation for the development of functional Lonicera edulis fruit products and promoting the growth of the Lonicera edulis fruit industry.