NEUROPROTECTIVE STRATEGIES IN GLAUCOMA: CURRENT EVIDENCE AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide, is characterized by progressive optic nerve degeneration and loss of retinal ganglion cells.

Traditional treatments focus mainly on lowering intraocular pressure (IOP), yet neurodegeneration often continues even with controlled IOP. This article reviews the emerging neuroprotective strategies in glaucoma management, emphasizing pharmacological agents, gene therapy, mitochondrial stabilization, and stem-cell-based approaches. Evidence suggests that neuroprotection targeting excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, inflammation, and impaired axonal transport can preserve retinal ganglion cell integrity and visual function. Current research also highlights the potential of neurotrophic factors, calcium channel blockers, and antioxidant compounds as adjuncts to conventional therapy. Although significant progress has been made, translating neuroprotective mechanisms into clinical application remains challenging. Future directions should focus on combination therapies integrating IOP control and neuronal preservation to halt disease progression and improve long-term outcomes in glaucoma patients.