Adenosine, adenosine receptors and glaucoma: An updated overview

BackgroundGlaucoma, a leading cause of blindness worldwide, is an optic neuropathy commonly associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). The major goals of glaucoma treatments are to lower IOP and protect retinal ganglion cells. It has been revealed recently that adenosine and adenosine receptors (ARs) have important roles in IOP modulation and neuroprotection.Scope of reviewThis article reviews recent studies on the important roles of adenosine and ARs in aqueous humor formation and outflow facility, IOP and retinal neuroprotection.Major conclusionsAdenosine and several adenosine derivatives increase and/or decrease IOP via A2A AR. Activation of A1 AR can reduce outflow resistance and thereby lower IOP, A3 receptor antagonists prevent adenosine-induced activation of Cl− channels of the ciliary non-pigmented epithelial cells and thereby lower IOP. A1 and A2A agonists can reduce vascular resistance and increase retina and optic nerve head blood flow. A1 agonist and A2A antagonist can enhance the recovery of retinal function after ischemia attack. Adenosine acting at A3 receptors can attenuate the rise in calcium and retinal ganglion cells death accompanying P2X(7) receptor activation.General significanceEvidence suggested that the adenosine system is one of the potential target systems for therapeutic approaches in glaucoma.

Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (116 K)Download as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Effects of adenosine/adenosine receptor on glaucoma are reviewed.
► Adenosine system can modulate aqueous humor formation and outflow facility.
► Adenosine system has the neuroprotective properties.
► Adenosine system is a target system for therapeutic approaches in glaucoma.