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Abstract #26364 Published in IGR 12-3
Mechanisms of retinal ganglion cell injury and defense in glaucoma
Qu J; Wang D; Grosskreutz CLExperimental Eye Research 2010; 91: 48-53
Glaucoma is a disease in which retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) die leading ultimately to blindness. Over the past decade and a half, information has begun to emerge regarding specific molecular responses of the retina to conditions of elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). It is now clear that the state of the RGC in glaucoma depends on a balance of pro-survival and pro-death pathways in the retina and details of these responses are still being worked out. In this review, we will discuss the evidence supporting the involvement of specific apoptotic cascades as well as the insults that trigger RGC apoptosis. In addition, we will present evidence supporting the existence of endogenous protective mechanisms as well as exogenous neuroprotective strategies.
Department of Ophthalmology, Howe Laboratory of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye & Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, 243 Charles Street, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
Classification:
3.6 Cellular biology (Part of: 3 Laboratory methods)
11.8 Neuroprotection (Part of: 11 Medical treatment)