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Heat shock protein 27 inhibition as a new glaucoma therapy

Institution: Experimental Eye Research Institute, University Eye Clinic, Knappschafskrankenhaus, Ruhr-University Bochum
Applicant: Stephanie Joachim
Funding line:
Key Projects
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Dr Sabrina Reinehr, Prof Dr Stephanie Joachim and Dr Teresa Tsai at work in the lab.
(© Universitätsklinikum Knappschaftskrankenhaus Bochum, Andreas Beyna)

In glaucoma, sensory cells in the optic nerve and retina degenerate. If not treated in time, the disease leads to permanent loss of vision and, in the worst case, blindness. The exact causes of this complex disease are not yet fully understood. In addition to increased intraocular pressure, the main risk factor, an altered immune response also plays an important role. Antibodies against small heat shock proteins (HSP) were detected in glaucoma patients. The aim is now to develop a new therapy option based on these findings. In cooperation with Prof Dr Bernd Plietker (TU Dresden), novel HSP27 inhibitors are produced. These active substances are designed for use in the eye and tested in different glaucoma models.