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Ординатура / Офтальмология / Английские материалы / Glaucoma An Open Window to Neurodegeneration and Neuroprotection_Nucci, Cerulli, Osborne_2008.pdf
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C. Nucci et al. (Eds.)

Progress in Brain Research, Vol. 173

ISSN 0079-6123

Copyright r 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved

CHAPTER 22

Mouse genetic models: an ideal system for understanding glaucomatous neurodegeneration and neuroprotection

Gareth R. Howell1, Richard T. Libby2 and Simon W.M. John1,3,4,

1The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA

2University of Rochester Eye Institute, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA

3The Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Bar Harbor, ME, USA

4Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts University of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA

Abstract: Here we review how mouse studies are contributing to understanding glaucoma. We include discussion of aqueous humor drainage and intraocular pressure elevation, because new treatments to avoid exposure to high pressure will indirectly protect neurons from glaucoma, and complement direct neuroprotective strategies. We describe how mouse models are adding to both the understanding of glaucomatous neurodegeneration and the development of neuroprotective strategies.

Keywords: glaucoma; neurodegeneration; neuroprotection

Introduction

Glaucoma is a heterogeneous group of diseases characterized by the dysfunction and death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). It is a leading neurodegenerative cause of blindness and is reported to be the second leading cause of blindness worldwide (Quigley and Broman, 2006). Approximately 70 million people are affected by glaucoma (Quigley, 1996). Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is one of the major risk factors for glaucoma, although high IOP is not necessary to cause glaucoma (Ritch et al., 1996). Additionally, high IOP by itself is not sufficient to cause glaucoma, as many individuals with high IOP do not develop glaucoma. Treatments for glaucoma currently center on lowering IOP

Corresponding author. Tel.: +1 207 288 6476; Fax: +1 207 288 6079; E-mail: simon.john@jax.org

levels, but do not prevent the development or progression of visual abnormalities in all patients (Gordon et al., 2002; Kass et al., 2002). To rationally develop better human treatments, it is vital that we better understand both pressure-dependent and pressure-independent mechanisms that contribute to glaucomatous RGC death.

The mouse as a model system

A variety of model systems are used to gain understanding into glaucoma pathology. Different species, which have their own unique mix of advantages and disadvantages, are used, including monkeys, dogs, rabbits, rats, and mice. The mouse is a powerful experimental tool for gaining understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying glaucoma (John et al., 1999; John, 2005). Along with humans, mice have one of the

DOI: 10.1016/S0079-6123(08)01122-9

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