Citicoline is an endogenous precursor that participates in the synthesis of phosphatidylcholine and is essential for maintaining cell membrane integrity and neurotransmission function. In recent years, the potential benefits of citicoline in visual neuroprotection and the treatment of various ophthalmic diseases have attracted widespread attention. This article will review the benefits of citicoline for visual neurons, especially its role in visual neuroprotection.
Citicoline exerts neuroprotective effects through multiple mechanisms, including reducing glutamate excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, increasing neurotrophic factor levels, enhancing neurotransmitter release, improving axonal transport defects, supporting axonal regeneration, promoting mitochondrial function, and regulating insulin signaling pathways. In addition, citicoline also maintains intracellular protein homeostasis by regulating the activity of proteasomes, which is essential for the survival and function of nerve cells. These mechanisms work together to help protect retinal ganglion cells from damage, thereby maintaining visual function.
Multiple clinical studies support the use of citicoline in visual neuroprotection. For example, the study by Parisi et al. reported that treatment with citicoline significantly improved the retinal and visual pathway function of patients, as shown by the reduction of visual field loss and the improvement of electroretinogram (PERG) parameters. In addition, the study by Ottobelli et al. reported that the use of citicoline oral solution for 24 months could significantly delay the progression of the disease. Recently, a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial by Rossetti et al. also confirmed that citicoline eye drops had a significant delaying effect on glaucoma.
As a safe neuroprotectant, citicoline shows significant potential benefits in visual neuroprotection. Although studies have shown that citicoline can improve vision, delay disease progression, and promote nerve regeneration, more randomized controlled trials are still needed to further verify its application value in visual neuroprotection.
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[2] Prinz J, Prokosch V, Liu H, et al. Efficacy of citicoline as a supplement in glaucoma patients: A systematic review[J]. Plos one, 2023, 18(9): e0291836.
[3] Al-Mosawi A. The use of citicoline in ophthalmology: An educational article[J]. Journal of Innovations in Medical Research, 2023, 2(4): 11-13.
*Special note - This article is for informational purposes only and cannot replace a doctor's treatment diagnosis and advice. It should not be regarded as a recommendation or proof of efficacy of the medical products involved. If it involves disease diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation, please be sure to go to a professional medical institution to seek professional advice.
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