These microalgae also decrease the levels of mRNA expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2), which are key factors in the etiology of diabetes-induced retinopathy and therefore can be used as a food supplement in the prevention and management of diabetic retinopathy due to presence of carotenoids and omega 3 fatty acids, while also preventing cataract development and further macular degeneration [56]. Here, VEGFA is linked to diabetic retinopathy.