Stem cells in the trabecular meshwork: present and future promises

Exp Eye Res. 2009 Apr;88(4):747-51. doi: 10.1016/j.exer.2008.10.024. Epub 2008 Nov 18.

Abstract

Primary open-angle glaucoma is recognized as a disease of aging, and studies show a relationship between aging and trabecular meshwork (TM) cell density. Human TM cell division occurs primarily in the anterior, non-filtering region. A commonly used glaucoma treatment, laser trabeculoplasty (LTP), triggers and increases cell division, as well as cell migration of these anterior TM cells. These freshly-divided migrating cells repopulate the burned laser sites, suggesting that they are stem cells. Several studies concerning this putative TM stem cell will be discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Glaucoma, Open-Angle / pathology*
  • Glaucoma, Open-Angle / surgery
  • Humans
  • Laser Therapy
  • Regeneration
  • Stem Cells / pathology*
  • Trabecular Meshwork / pathology*
  • Trabecular Meshwork / physiology
  • Trabeculectomy