Set-up of a 3D Human Trabecular Meshwork Cell in vitro model for the study of the pathophysiology of the aqueous humor conventional outflow pathway, through the use of oxidative and pressor stimuli and medical compounds

Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy that leads to irreversible blindness. The TM plays a pivotal role in conventional aqueous humor outflow pathways. The progressive morphological and functional decline of the TM leads to increased intraocular pressure (IOP), a hallmark of this disease. Many other conditions contribute to the development of glaucomatous disease, such as oxidative stress and cellular responses to damage leading to autophagy or senescence. To date, IOP is the sole target of therapy, without counteracting blindness. Unfortunately, no reliable experimental model can analyze and identify the crucial factors for preventing this multifactorial disease. Considering these problems, a human-based in vitro model may help clarify the disease's mechanism.