What are the effects and benefits of taurine for the eyes?

Taurine is a sulfur-containing amino acid that plays several critical roles in ocular physiology. It is highly concentrated in the retina—particularly in photoreceptor cells and the retinal pigment epithelium—where it functions as an antioxidant, membrane stabilizer, and osmoregulator. Taurine supports retinal development and maintenance by protecting photoreceptors from oxidative stress and light-induced damage. Deficiency states—such as those seen in certain metabolic disorders or long-term parenteral nutrition without taurine supplementation—have been associated with retinal degeneration and impaired visual function in both animal models and human case reports. While dietary taurine is generally abundant in meat, fish, and dairy, and endogenous synthesis occurs in healthy individuals, its therapeutic use in ophthalmology remains investigational; current evidence does not support routine supplementation for common eye conditions like age-related macular degeneration or glaucoma outside of specific deficiency contexts. Clinical decisions regarding taurine should be guided by individual assessment and evidence-based indications.