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The Endocannabinoid System as a Therapeutic Target in Glaucoma

Authors :
William H. Baldridge
Elizabeth A. Cairns
Melanie E. M. Kelly
Source :
Neural Plasticity, Neural Plasticity, Vol 2016 (2016)
Publication Year :
2015

Abstract

Glaucoma is an irreversible blinding eye disease which produces progressive retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss. Intraocular pressure (IOP) is currently the only modifiable risk factor, and lowering IOP results in reduced risk of progression of the disorder. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has attracted considerable attention as a potential target for the treatment of glaucoma, largely due to the observed IOP lowering effects seen after administration of exogenous cannabinoids. However, recent evidence has suggested that modulation of the ECS may also be neuroprotective. This paper will review the use of cannabinoids in glaucoma, presenting pertinent information regarding the pathophysiology of glaucoma and how alterations in cannabinoid signalling may contribute to glaucoma pathology. Additionally, the mechanisms and potential for the use of cannabinoids and other novel agents that target the endocannabinoid system in the treatment of glaucoma will be discussed.

Details

ISSN :
16875443
Volume :
2016
Database :
OpenAIRE
Journal :
Neural plasticity
Accession number :
edsair.doi.dedup.....6557c4728cd3372c708c6ad8819762a7