Why, of so many phytochemicals and carotenoids, is lutein so important?

Since the discovery that the particular carotenoid called lutein incorporates to macula, the central part of retina, lutein has been actively investigated for its novel function to protect eyes and optic nerves. Unlike skin cells, optic nerve cells would not regenerate themselves, and the damages and cell deaths in optic nerves that occur over time are irreversible. Indeed, aging-related visual dysfunctions and diseases are the leading causes of blindness.