Advancing In Vitro Microfluidic Models for Pressure-Induced Retinal Ganglion Cell Degeneration: Current Insights and Future Directions from a Biomechanical Perspective

Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness, primarily characterized by retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss and optic nerve damage due to abnormal alterations in intraocular pressure (IOP). While in vivo models provide valuable insights into its pathophysiology, they face limitations in controlling biomechanical parameters and long-term IOP monitoring. In vitro models offer greater experimental control but often lack the complexity of the ocular microenvironment, limiting their physiological relevance. To better understand RGC degeneration from a biomechanical perspective, advancements are needed to improve these models, including precise pressure manipulation and more realistic cell culture conditions. This review summarizes current in vitro approaches for studying pressure-induced RGC degeneration and explores the potential of microfluidic technologies to enhance model fidelity. Incorporating microfluidic technologies holds promise for creating more physiologically relevant models, potentially advancing our understanding of IOP-related RGC degeneration from biomechanical perspectives.