Current understanding of neuroprotection in glaucoma.
The most common optic neuropathy is glaucomatous optic neuropathy, distinguished by a distinctive and progressive excavation of the optic nerve head without significant pallor of the remaining neuroretinal rim. Neuroprotection is a novel strategy for treating disorders that affect the nervous system by preventing death of neurons. In glaucomatous optic neuropathy, the neurons that die are retinal ganglion cells. This article reviews the recent basic science relevant to neuroprotection, particularly with respect to retinal ganglion cell death in glaucomatous and other optic neuropathies.
Wein
Francine B
FB
Department of Ophthalmology, McGill University Health Center, Montreal, Canada.
Levin
Leonard A
LA
D016923:Cell Death; D005901:Glaucoma / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D018696:Neuroprotective Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D009901:Optic Nerve Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D012165:Retinal Ganglion Cells / Q000473:pathology
D018696:Neuroprotective Agents