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Neuroprotection for optic nerve disorders

Anne-Caroline Bessero1, Peter G H Clarke

  • 1Department of Neuro-Ophthalmology, The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK. anncaroline.bessero@uclh.nhs.uk

Current Opinion in Neurology
|November 17, 2009
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Neuroprotection research in rodent models reveals complex mechanisms of retinal ganglion cell death. Advances in understanding excitotoxicity and inflammatory pathways are refining strategies for optic nerve disorders like glaucoma.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Neuroscience
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Neuroprotection strategies for optic nerve fiber loss emerged in the 1990s.
  • Research primarily utilizes rodent models to understand retinal ganglion cell death.
  • Clinical translation of neuroprotective therapies remains a challenge.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent advances in understanding the mechanisms of optic nerve damage.
  • To highlight potential therapeutic strategies for neuroprotection.
  • To provide an update on the last year's progress in the field.

Main Methods:

  • Review of rodent models of excitotoxicity and axotomy.
  • Analysis of molecular interactions between retinal neurons and Müller glia.
  • Investigation of neurotrophin signaling pathways and inflammatory mediators.

Main Results:

  • Retinal ganglion cell death involves complex interactions, including Müller glia releasing tumor necrosis factor alpha.
  • Neurotrophins like nerve growth factor can paradoxically stimulate toxic release via p75NTR receptors.
  • LINGO-1 inhibits brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) neuroprotection; LINGO-1 antagonists enhance BDNF efficacy.
  • Infrared radiation shows potential for stimulating retinal defenses.

Conclusions:

  • Mechanisms of glaucoma and optic nerve disorders are increasingly understood through rodent models.
  • Key mechanisms include retrograde degeneration, excitotoxicity, and inflammatory/autoimmune processes.
  • Neuroprotective strategies are being refined based on enhanced mechanistic insights.

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