Reduced Plasma BDNF Levels in Normal Tension Glaucoma Compared to Open Angle Glaucoma.

PRCIS

The study suggests that a low level of systemic BDNF may contribute to the pathogenesis of glaucoma in an IOP-independent manner.

AIMS

To evaluate differences in systemic brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels between primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) patients and normal tension glaucoma (NTG) patients.

METHODS

This study collected blood samples from 260 NTG patients, 220 age-matched POAG patients, and 120 age-matched cataract patients (as controls). BDNF levels were measured with an antibody-conjugated bead assay system (Luminex).

RESULTS

We found that plasma BDNF levels in the NTG group were significantly lower than in the POAG and cataract control groups. There was no significant difference between the POAG and cataract groups.

CONCLUSION

This result suggests that a low level of systemic BDNF may contribute to the pathogenesis of glaucoma in an IOP-independent manner.