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Mitochondrial reactive oxygen species are an integral step in the development of a chronic oxidative stress response in TM cellsIn this careful and clearly-presented study, Li et al. (30) present observations on the sustained stress response in trabecular meshwork (TM) cells. This study extends earlier studies by Wang et al. (Nat Med 2001; 7: 304-309). The authors simulate chronic oxidative stress using hydrogen peroxide exposure to TM cells. Re-active oxygen species (ROS) released by mitochondria, NF-kappaB and several inflammatory markers, such as IL-1, IL-6, IL-8 and ELAM-1, were assessed. The changes observed suggested a chronic inflammatory response and define the behaviour of a number of inflammatory mediators. Using a variety of inhibitors, the authors then show that the mitochondrial ROS are an integral step in the development of a chronic oxidative stress response in TM cells.
Conceptually, this chronic oxidative stress could interact with other factors, genetic or otherwise, to facilitate the development of primary open-angle glaucoma. Hence, the earlier studies on this topic are supported and extended to further clarify possible roles in glaucoma pathogenesis.