Mechanisms of retinal ganglion cell death in glaucoma

Elevated intraocular pressure is the most significant risk factor in glaucoma but the mechanisms of retinal ganglion cell death in remain incompletely understood. Animal models of glaucoma provide a way to study the possible pathogenesis of glaucomatous retinal ganglion cell death and to assess potential neuroprotective strategies. In this volume, Dr Keith Martin describes in detail how a trabecular laser glaucoma model can be used to study changes occuring in the retina and optic nerve of eyes with elevated intraocular pressure. The possible involvement of retinal glutamate transporters in glaucoma is explored, hinting at possible new treatment approaches. Dr Martin goes on to describe in detail the techniques that led to the first successful use of neurotrophic factor gene therapy to reduce retinal ganglion cell death in experimental glaucoma.