Altering the way the optic nerve head responds to intraocular pressure-a potential approach to glaucoma therapy

► Optic nerve head biomechanics influences the relationship between IOP and glaucoma. ► A 'stiffer' sclera reduces ganglion cell loss in an animal model of glaucoma. ► Sclera stiffens with ageing and glaucoma increases with age. ► It is theoretically possible to cross-link sclera to increase its stiffness. ► Unclear whether scleral cross-linking will be safe or protective in glaucoma.