Studies on ocular inflammation and development of a prostaglandin analogue for glaucoma treatment.

This review summarizes the Ernst H. Bárány Prize Lecture given at the meeting of the International Society of Eye Research in Geneva 2002. In the paper the path from the author's early studies on neurogenic inflammation in the eye to the search for a suitable prostaglandin analogue for glaucoma treatment, and the development of latanoprost are described. In particular the solution to the nociceptive and hyperemic side-effects of naturally occurring prostaglandins in the eye, the mechanism of action of FP prostanoid receptor agonists as well as the selection of dose for glaucoma treatment are discussed. In addition, pharmacokinetical aspects of latanoprost, and the melanogenic side-effect of prostaglandins in the iris are addressed. The paper is primarily focused on studies performed by the author and complete reference to other previous, or contemporary studies is therefore not always given as the purpose is not to present a comprehensive review article.