Gene polymorphisms associated with progression of primary open-angle glaucoma: A systematic review.

Glaucoma is the leading global cause of irreversible blindness, with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) its most prevalent subtype. While elevated intraocular pressure is a major risk factor, glaucoma progression is multifactorial, influenced by genetic, environmental, vascular and mechanical factors. Genetic polymorphisms have been linked to both POAG susceptibility and progression, yet most studies focus on risk factors for disease onset rather than progression. We provide an overview of the current literature on gene polymorphisms associated with POAG progression. We conducted a systematic search following PRISMA guidelines in MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Scopus and Public Health Genomics and Precision Health Knowledge Base. Eligible studies investigated associations between genetic variants and structural or functional markers of glaucoma progression in adult-onset POAG patients. Eighteen articles were included. HLA class I haplotypes (A1-B8 and A2-B40) and MYOC.mt1+ carriers showed faster progression of optic nerve head damage. The APOE ε4 allele was linked to faster macular thinning in normal tension glaucoma patients. BDNF rs6265 Val/Val homozygotes exhibited accelerated retinal nerve fiber layer loss, particularly in females. TGFBR3-CDC7 (rs1192415: G) and MYOC.mt1+ carriers experienced accelerated visual field deterioration. Carriers of GAS7 (rs9913911: AA), IL1B (rs1143627: CT and rs16944: CT) and OPTN (rs2234968) had a higher likelihood of requiring surgery. Variants in ABCA1, CDKN2B-AS, eNOS and Piezo1 showed inconclusive results. These findings support a role for genetic polymorphisms in POAG progression and highlight the potential of genetic screening to identify patients at increased risk for rapid disease progression.