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The Ophthalmologist / Issues / 2026 / January / Protecting the Neuron
Neuro-ophthalmology Glaucoma Opinions

Protecting the Neuron

Could neuroprotective therapies offer new hope for glaucoma and a host of other eye conditions?

By Alun Evans 1/7/2026 3 min read

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Clinical Report: Protecting the Neuron

Overview

Recent advancements in neuroprotective strategies for glaucoma are being explored, particularly through the DLK/LZK pathway. Dr. Eugene de Juan, Jr. is leading research on PBI-671, a drug aimed at preventing vision loss in glaucoma patients.

Background

Neuroprotection is an emerging area of interest in glaucoma management, especially given the limitations of current therapies that primarily focus on intraocular pressure (IOP) reduction. The potential for pharmacologic neuroprotection could address significant challenges in patient compliance and treatment efficacy. As research progresses, understanding these strategies may enhance clinical outcomes for glaucoma patients.

Data Highlights

No numerical data available in the source material.

Key Findings

  • Dr. Eugene de Juan, Jr. is focusing on the DLK/LZK pathway for neuroprotection in glaucoma.
  • PBI-671 is being developed to inhibit the DLK/LZK pathway to prevent vision loss.
  • Animal studies have shown nearly complete protection of retinal ganglion cells with PBI-671.
  • Current guidelines emphasize IOP reduction as the only proven disease-modifying strategy for glaucoma.
  • Neuroprotective agents are not yet endorsed for routine clinical use but are a research priority.

Clinical Implications

Highlight the potential integration of neuroprotective therapies into standard care.

Conclusion

Stress the importance of continued research and potential timelines for clinical application.

References

  1. European Glaucoma Society, British Journal of Ophthalmology, 2025 -- Terminology and guidelines for glaucoma, 6th Edition
  2. Reduction of Intraocular Pressure and Glaucoma Progression: Results From the Early Manifest Glaucoma Trial, JAMA Ophthalmology, 2021
  3. Nicotinamide and Pyruvate for Neuroenhancement in Open-Angle Glaucoma: A Phase 2 Randomized Clinical Trial, PubMed, 2021
  4. Brain — Harnessing Neuronal Resilience for Advancements in Therapeutic Approaches
  5. Acta Neuropathologica — The Role of Ranvier Nodes in Central Nervous System Disorders
  6. Acta Neuropathologica — Regulation of the Endoneurial Microenvironment: Insights on Development, Aging, and Responses to Trauma, Disease, and Toxic Exposure
  7. Acta Neuropathologica — The role of the necroptosis pathway in promoting neurodegeneration associated with Alzheimer’s disease
  8. European Glaucoma Society – Terminology and guidelines for glaucoma, 6th Edition | British Journal of Ophthalmology
  9. Reduction of Intraocular Pressure and Glaucoma Progression: Results From the Early Manifest Glaucoma Trial | Glaucoma | JAMA Ophthalmology | JAMA Network
  10. Nicotinamide and Pyruvate for Neuroenhancement in Open-Angle Glaucoma: A Phase 2 Randomized Clinical Trial - PubMed

This content is an AI-generated, fully rewritten summary based on a published scholarly article. It does not reproduce the original text and is not a substitute for the original publication. Readers are encouraged to consult the source for full context, data, and methodology.

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