TSPO Activation Modulates the Effects of High Pressure in a Rat Ex Vivo Glaucoma Model

The study from December 1, 2016, explored the protective role of translocator protein (TSPO) activation against retinal damage caused by high intraocular pressure (IOP) in a rat model of acute angle-closure glaucoma. High IOP is known to damage retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), leading to vision loss. The researchers found that high pressure increased the expression of TSPO and 5α-reductase (5aRD), enzymes involved in the synthesis of the neuroprotective steroid allopregnanolone (AlloP). Using a TSPO antagonist worsened retinal damage under high pressure, while a TSPO agonist significantly reduced retinal degeneration. The results suggest that TSPO activation and subsequent AlloP synthesis are necessary for protecting the retina from high-pressure-induced damage, indicating that TSPO agonists could be potential therapeutic agents for glaucoma. The study also highlighted the risk of using 5aRD inhibitors, as they may exacerbate retinal damage by inhibiting AlloP synthesis during elevated IOP.