New molecules could change how we spot and treat glaucoma
Scientists at the University of Missouri have found two molecules—agmatine and thiamine—that might make it easier to detect glaucoma early and protect vision.
Their study, published in 2025, points to these molecules as potentially significant for both diagnosis and treatment.
What did the study find?
By comparing eye fluid from people with glaucoma to healthy controls, researchers noticed agmatine and thiamine levels were much lower in those with the disease.
These shifts hint at deeper changes in how cells process energy—a clue that could help catch glaucoma sooner.
Why does this matter?
In mouse studies, giving agmatine and thiamine reduced eye inflammation and helped protect nerve cells tied to vision.
Right now, most treatments just lower eye pressure; these findings open doors for therapies that actually shield nerves from damage.
The hope is for future blood or eye tests to spot glaucoma earlier—but more research is needed before this reaches clinics.