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Abstract #20575 Published in IGR 10-1
Neuroprotection: New pharmacological targets
Wheeler L; Lai R; Woldemussie E; Hare WAEye 2007; 21: S46-S50
Recent research in the field of neuroprotection in glaucoma has focused on the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) and the α-2 adrenergic receptor systems. Experimental findings have shown that brimonidine (BMD), a specific α-2 adrenoceptor agonist, can protect against loss in mitochondrial membrane potential during oxidative stress, and preserve anterograde axonal transport. Memantine is a selective blocker of the NMDA-type glutamatergic type ion channel. It has unique open channel blocker properties that result in a preferential inhibition of excessive (excitotoxic) neuronal activation by high levels of glutamate without interfering with the channel's normal functions. In a primate model, memantine was neuroprotective as can be seen from its effect on maintaining/preserving RGCs. Research in Alzheimer's disease has demonstrated that memantine may increase neuronal functionality as well as being protective. Research in a primate glaucoma model shows that memantine protects neurons from shrinking in the lateral geniculate nucleus. Memantine is currently in clinical trials for glaucoma.
Dr. L. Wheeler, Department of Biological Sciences, Research and Development, Allergan Inc., Irvine, CA, USA
Classification:
11.8 Neuroprotection (Part of: 11 Medical treatment)
