Cedrus Deodara Needle Oil and Bark Extract as Potential Therapeutic Candidate for Glaucoma

Abstract

Glaucoma is a neuropathic disease that causes loss of vision if not treated. Major factors that are involved in glaucoma include elevated intraocular pressure, retinal ischemia, neurotoxicity, and oxidative stress. These factors lead to the demise of retinal ganglion cells which leads to vision loss. Various pathways govern these processes. One such pathway is the glutamate–glutamine cycle that regulates the amount of glutamine. Glu is an important neurotransmitter that plays a vital role in many neurological processes. Excess Glu has also been linked to the development of glaucoma. Cedrus deodara is a coniferous tree found in the Himalayan region. The essential oil extracted from pine needles is mainly composed of terpenoids and aromatic compounds. The bark of C. deodara also contains many important compounds like neophytadiene, which has anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In the present study, we targeted oxidative stress and the Glu-Gln cycle. Bark extract showed significant antioxidant activity. We also performed in silico analysis of two compounds, beta-Cadinene from oil and neophytadiene from the extract. The simulation studies showed stability in a protein–ligand complex. Thus, we can conclude that these components of C. deodara can be used as therapeutic candidates for glaucoma.