Increased expression of the transient receptor potential cation channel 6 gene in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma.

BACKGROUND

The result of primary open-angle glaucoma is the loss of retinal ganglion cells. Transient receptor potential cation channel 6 is a pressure-related channel that may function in the survival of retinal ganglion cells. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the expression levels of the transient receptor potential cation channel 6 gene in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma.

DESIGN

Randomization study at Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center in China.

PARTICIPANTS

80 primary open-angle glaucoma patients and 75 cataract patients recruited from Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center.

METHODS

Total RNA was extracted from the leukocytes of the peripheral blood collected. The levels of transient receptor potential cation channel 6-messenger RNA were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Related factors including age, intraocular pressure, optic cup-to-disc ratio and visual field defect were analysed accordingly.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Clinical examination and the messenger RNA level.

RESULTS

The expression level of the transient receptor potential cation channel 6 gene in the leukocytes of primary open-angle glaucoma patients was two times higher when compared with control cataract patients. The gene expression level was also correlated with intraocular pressure and cup-to-disc ratio. Treatment with different anti-glaucoma drugs did not affect the gene expression.

CONCLUSIONS

Increasing expression levels of the transient receptor potential cation channel 6 gene in the blood accompanies chronic elevation of intraocular pressure in primary open-angle glaucoma and may serve as a genetic biomarker for primary open-angle glaucoma.