Neuroprotection in Glaucoma

At Glaucoma360, Eugene de Juan Jr, MD, discussed the need, the opportunity, and approaches that target ganglion cells, axons, and vascular support.

By: Eugene de Juan Jr, MD

Glaucoma Physician February 4, 2026

5 Key Takeaways

1

Neuroprotection in glaucoma is essential as many patients still experience blindness despite intraocular pressure reduction.
2

Recent advancements in understanding glaucoma pathophysiology highlight the potential for drugs to protect ganglion cells and axons.
3

Inhibition of the DLK/LZK pathway has shown significant protection of ganglion cells in nonhuman primates under high intraocular pressure.
4

Maintaining NAD+ levels is crucial for preventing axonal degeneration, with strategies involving SARM1 and NMNAT2 showing promise.
5

Innovative clinical trial designs, including AI-based strategies, may reduce the number of patients needed for glaucoma studies.

Eugene de Juan Jr

Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology

Affiliations: University of California, San Francisco

Specialties: Ophthalmology

Bio: Eugene de Juan Jr, MD, is a professor in the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of California, San Francisco. His work discussed in Glaucoma Physician focuses on neuroprotection in glaucoma, including strategies aimed at protecting retinal ganglion cells and axons and supporting vascular health. At Glaucoma 360, Dr. de Juan delivered the Henry and Frederick Sutro Memorial Lecture, presenting on the need for additional approaches beyond intraocular pressure lowering to reduce vision loss and quality-of-life impacts in patients with glaucoma.

PentaVision

Glaucoma Physician

Neuroprotection in Glaucoma

5 Key Takeaways

1

2

3

4

5

Recommendations