The journal IOVS explained that a study conducted by scientists from the University of Missouri in the United States revealed a link between a deficiency of agmatin and thiamine (vitamin B1) and glaucoma, as a decrease in their levels in the body leads to inflammation and death of retinal cells, which may cause permanent vision loss.
Researchers analyzed the ocular fluid of 19 glaucoma patients and 10 healthy volunteers, studying 135 metabolites. They found that agmatin and thiamine levels in the patients were significantly lower than normal. The team then tested the effects of these substances on retinal cells and mice. Increasing their levels reduced inflammation, protected sensitive cells from damage, and even improved vision in the animals.
Scientists believe that agmatin and thiamine may be early biomarkers for detecting glaucoma before symptoms appear, and they may be used to develop new treatments that not only slow the progression of the disease but also protect nerve cells in the eye.
The research team believes that in the future a simple blood test may be sufficient to diagnose glaucoma at early stages in a way that is accessible to everyone.