Stem cell-based approaches for glaucoma treatment: a mini review.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology and Regenerative Medicine
• Neuroscience and Cell Biology

Background:

• Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness, characterized by retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss and high intraocular pressure.
• Existing therapies for glaucoma often fail to prevent disease progression, necessitating novel neuroprotective and regenerative strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in stem cell-based therapies for glaucomatous optic neuropathy.
• To evaluate strategies including RGC regeneration, paracrine neuroprotection, and trabecular meshwork restoration.

Main Methods:

• Systematic synthesis of evidence from preclinical and clinical studies on stem cell interventions for glaucoma.
• Focus on embryonic stem cells (ESCs), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), and adult stem cells.

Main Results:

• Stem cell therapies demonstrate efficacy in promoting retinal repair and neuroprotection in glaucoma models.
• Embryonic, induced pluripotent, and adult stem cells show potential for treating glaucomatous optic neuropathy.

Conclusions:

• Stem cell therapy offers a transformative approach for glaucoma, with potential for RGC regeneration and neuroprotection.
• Significant translational challenges, including graft integration, tumorigenicity, and immune rejection, must be addressed for clinical application.
• Emerging technologies like CRISPR/Cas9 and 3D bioprinting may facilitate personalized and combinatory glaucoma treatments.