[Is glaucoma a mitochondrial neurodegenerative disease].

The retinal ganglion cell, due to peculiar structural and energetic constraints, appears acutely susceptible to mitochondrial dysfunction. Emerging evidence suggests that changes in the mitochondrial DNA(mtDNA)and in nuclear DNA genes that encode mitochondrial proteins may influence mitochondrial structure and function and, therefore, contribute to the pathogenesis of primary open angle glaucoma. As the main glaucoma risk factors are elevated intraocular pressure and older age, we discuss their relationship with mitochondrial dysfunction. If the contribution of mitochondrial dysfunction to glaucoma pathogenesis is further established, emerging therapies aiming to optimize mitochondrial function represent potential clinical treatments. (Chin J Ophthalmol, 2016, 52: 714-717).