Title

 

Authors

M. D. Lograno

Dipartimento Farmaco-Biologico, Università di Bari

 

Abstract

Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy characterized by the degeneration of retinal ganglion cells with resultant visual field defects and loss of vision. Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) represents the major risk factor of primary open angle glaucoma. A wide expression of cannabinoid and prostanoid receptors in the anterior segment of eye has been reported which have an important physiological role. Indeed, the current antiglaucomatous therapy uses ocular hypotensive agents such as the synthetic analogues of prostanglandings F2aeven if recently cannabinoids have received considerable attention as potential antiglaucomatous drugs. The mechanisms underlying the effects of cannabinoids and prostanoids on IOP appear to influence drainage of aqueous humor via uveoscleral and conventional outflow. Our studies have shown that anandamide causes contraction of the human ciliary muscle, an event known to promote outflow of the aqueous humor through the trabecular meshwork. In addition, we have demonstrated that prostaglandin analogues or cannabinoid agonists stimulate contractile activity of the human ciliary muscle.