Glaucoma and the human microbiome

Key Takeaways

• Researchers undertook a literature review to explore the potential link between the microbiome and the pathogenesis and progression of glaucoma.
• They found that there may be a potential for microbiota-based treatment modalities and suggest that further study of the relationships between the human microbiome and glaucoma is needed.

The human microbiome is the collection of all microbes, such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and their genes, that naturally live on our bodies and inside us. Although microbes are so small that they require a microscope to see them, they contribute in big ways to human health and wellness. 

Researchers conducted a literature review to explore the potential link between the microbiome and the pathogenesis and progression of glaucoma. They found that alterations to the human microbiota have been associated with changes in intestinal permeability (gut leakiness), gene regulation (which genes are “turned on” and “turned off”), immune cell development and nerve functioning, which may predispose the host to glaucoma. In addition, select microbes have been highlighted for their potential contributions to glaucoma disease progression or protection, raising the potential for microbiota-based treatment modalities. Current topical glaucoma treatments may disrupt the ocular surface microbiota (microorganisms living on the surface of the eye), potentially having ramifications on host health. The authors conclude that more study of the relationships between human microbiome and glaucoma is needed.

Edited by Miriam Kaplan, PhD

Source: Chih-Chiun J. Chang, MD et al, Journal of Glaucoma, May 29, 2024, DOI: 10.1097/IJG.0000000000002448