Citation
Qiu Leyi, Yuan Huiping. Single-cell sequencing technology in exploring the role of microglia in glaucomatous optic nerve injury[J]. Chin J Exp Ophthalmol, 2026, 44(3):286-290. DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.cn115989-20241211-00346.
ABSTRACT [Download PDF] [Read Full Text]
Glaucoma is characterized by the progressive damage of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) and is recognized as a neurodegenerative ocular disease. Current research suggests that its pathogenesis is closely associated with microglial activation. Upon activation, microglia exert a dual effect: they can be both neurotoxic and neuroprotective to neurons. In glaucoma, microglial activation leads to RGC injury, thereby influencing the onset and progression of the disease. Single-cell sequencing technology enables the detection of microglial gene expression profiles in tissues and the systematic statistical analysis of their expression characteristics, thus overcoming the technical limitations of traditional research methods. Investigating the role of microglial activation in the pathogenesis of glaucoma is of great significance for its prevention and treatment. This article reviews the role of microglia in glaucomatous optic nerve injury and the research progress on the application of single-cell sequencing technology in microglial studies, aiming to provide a reference for exploring the mechanisms of glaucoma and developing more effective treatment strategies.
KEYWORDS：
Glaucoma; Retinal ganglion cell; Microglia; Single-cell sequencing; Optic nerve injury
Authors Info & Affiliations
Qiu Leyi
Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China
Yuan Huiping
Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150086, China