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Abstract #8202 Published in IGR 4-3
Neurobiology of glaucomatous optic neuropathy: diverse cellular events in neurodegeneration and neuroprotection
Wax MB; Tezel GMolecular Neurobiology 2002; 26: 45-55
Although glaucomatous optic nerve degeneration is a leading cause of worldwide blindness, neither the precise cellular mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration in glaucoma, nor effective strategies for neuroprotection are yet clear. This review focuses on diverse cellular events associated with glaucomatous neurodegeneration whose balance is critical for determination of ultimate cell fate. An improved understanding of the site of primary injury to optic nerve, the mediator pathways of apoptotic cell death and intrinsic protection mechanisms in retinal ganglion cells, the role of glial activation on the survival and death of retinal ganglion cell bodies and their axons, and the protective and destructive consequences of immune system involvement can facilitate the development of effective neuroprotective strategies in glaucoma.
M.B. Wax, MD, Pharmacia Corporation, 700 Chesterfield Parkway, AA2A, St Louis, MO 63138, USA. martin.b.wax@pharmacia.com
Classification:
1.3 Pathogenesis (Part of: 1 General aspects)
