Erigeron breviscapus: A Promising Medication for Protecting the Optic Nerve in Glaucoma

Abstract

Glaucoma is a common eye condition characterized by the loss of retinal ganglion cells and their axons, optic nerve damage, and visual field defects, which seriously affect a patientʼs quality of life. The pathogenesis of glaucoma is still unclear at present. It presents as damage to retinal ganglion cells, and the main treatment is primarily to reduce intraocular pressure by surgery or taking medication. However, even with well-controlled intraocular pressure, retinal ganglion cells still undergo degeneration, progressive apoptosis, and axonal loss. Therefore, protecting the optic nerve and inhibiting the apoptosis of retinal ganglion cells are the current hot topic for prevention and treatment of glaucoma. Recently, Erigeron breviscapus, originating from Yunnan province in China, has been shown to be a promising herb with neuroprotective effects to treat glaucoma. Therefore, the traditional usage, botanical characteristics, and phytochemical composition of E. breviscapus were explored through a literature review. Furthermore, we have summarized the pharmacological mechanisms of E. breviscapus and its active components in inhibiting the apoptosis of retinal ganglion cells. These research findings can not only provide guidance and recommendations for the protection of retinal ganglion cells but also further explore the potential of E. breviscapus in the treatment of glaucoma.