Abstract:Retinal ganglion cells(RGCs), as pivotal neurons in visual signal transduction, are critically implicated in various blinding eye diseases through their apoptosis. Consequently, research on RGC protection is of high significance in this domain. This review delineates the mechanisms by which traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)modulates RGC apoptosis. Focusing on the multi-target and multi-pathway attributes of active herbal constituents in Chinese herbal medicine, it systematically examines their influence on apoptosis-related genes and signaling pathways. The review aims to synthesize recent advances in TCM interventions for RGC apoptosis, elucidating the mechanisms and potential therapeutic benefits of active herbal components in inhibiting cell apoptosis and protecting neural function. However, current research still has limitations. The multi-component, multi-pathway mechanisms of TCM have not been fully clarified at the molecular level, and high-quality clinical evidence is lacking. Future studies should integrate systems pharmacology, gene editing, and other technologies to further elucidate molecular targets, complemented by standardized clinical trials to verify their efficacy and safety.
