Abstract

GLAUCOMA MANAGEMENT VIA NANOTECHNOLOGY: A REVIEW

Ritik G. Ahire, Prafulla A. Ahire*, Nikita R. Sonawane, Imtiaz T. Ansari and Ravindra R. Patil

ABSTRACT

Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) breakdown is a hallmark of glaucoma, a condition that predominantly affects the optic nerve and is one of the primary causes of irreversible blindness. While elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is a significant risk factor, other contributors include genetics, systemic conditions, and environmental factors. Traditional treatments often fall short, facing challenges such as inadequate IOP control and systemic side effects. Recent advancements in nanotechnology offer promising alternatives, enhancing drug delivery through engineered nanoparticles, liposomes, and dendrimers. These novel systems improve drug bioavailability, ensure targeted delivery to ocular tissues, and enable sustained release, thereby minimizing toxicity and enhancing therapeutic efficacy. The pathophysiology of various glaucoma types, including primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and normal-tension glaucoma (NTG), is complex and multifactorial, necessitating tailored treatment strategies. Genetic factors also play a crucial role, with specific genes implicated in different glaucoma forms. Comprehensive evaluations combining medical history, visual field testing, IOP measurement, and advanced imaging techniques like Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) are vital for accurate diagnosis. Nanomedicine, characterized by its nanoscale innovations, addresses the challenges of conventional drug delivery systems. It provides a platform for combinatorial therapies that target multiple pathophysiological  processes simultaneously, thus enhancing treatment outcomes. Future research should focus on novel nanomaterials, implantable devices for sustained drug release, and gene therapy approaches. By leveraging these advancements, the management of glaucoma can be revolutionized, ultimately improving patient adherence, comfort, and quality of life.

Keywords: Glaucoma, Nanotechnology, POAG, NTG, Novel Drug Delivery.