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Elevated Plasma Endothelin-1 Levels in Normal Tension Glaucoma and Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma: A Meta-Analysis
Shengjie Li1, Aiping Zhang1, Wenjun Cao2
1Department of Clinical Laboratory, Eye & ENT Hospital, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
Journal of Ophthalmology
|December 15, 2016
Summary
Elevated plasma endothelin-1 levels are linked to increased risks of normal tension glaucoma (NTG) and primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). This meta-analysis confirms endothelin-1 as a potential biomarker for glaucoma development.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cardiovascular Research
- Biomarkers
Background:
- Glaucoma, including normal tension glaucoma (NTG) and primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), poses a significant threat to vision.
- Endothelin-1 is a potent vasoconstrictor with potential roles in ocular blood flow regulation.
Approach:
- A comprehensive meta-analysis was conducted by searching PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases.
- Data from seven studies (212 cases, 164 controls) for NTG and six studies (160 cases, 174 controls) for POAG were analyzed.
- Statistical analysis was performed using Review Manager 5.2 to assess the association between plasma endothelin-1 levels and glaucoma risk.
Key Points:
- Plasma endothelin-1 levels were significantly higher in NTG patients (0.60 pg/mL, p=0.02) compared to healthy controls.
- Plasma endothelin-1 levels were also significantly elevated in POAG patients (0.63 pg/mL, p=0.007) versus healthy controls.
- Sensitivity analysis indicated robustness of the findings for POAG, with a low probability of publication bias.
Conclusions:
- Elevated plasma endothelin-1 concentrations are associated with both NTG and POAG.
- Higher plasma endothelin-1 levels may represent an increased risk factor for the development of NTG and POAG.
- Endothelin-1 warrants further investigation as a potential diagnostic or prognostic biomarker in glaucoma.
