Pharmacogenomics of Open-Angle Glaucoma

Pharmacogenomics is an evolving research discipline in medicine. Within ophthalmology, the earliest candidate gene investigations have studied primary and secondary open-angle glaucoma (OAG), as well as normal tension glaucoma (NTG). At this time, pharmacogenomics data are not generally used to make clinical decisions. However, as we collect data from clinical trials, the role of pharmacogenomics in the care of patients with glaucoma and allied diseases will become clearer. There are at least two potential future roles for applying pharmacogenomics in the treatment of OAG and allied disorders. First, more targeted therapy may lead to better treatment outcomes, with less exposure to medications in patients unlikely to respond to them. Second, pharmacogenomic research may lead to the development of novel therapies for these diseases.