POTENTIAL STRATEGIES AND APPROACHES FOR ENHANCING THE BIOAVAILABILITY OF NATURAL ALKALOIDS  IN GLAUCOMA TREATMENT

INTRODUCTION: Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide, with effective management relying on early detection and reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP). Despite therapeutic advances, there is a lack of natural-origin bioproducts with proven safety profiles on the market. Alkaloids, as naturally occurring molecules with low toxicity, represent a potential avenue for enhancing glaucoma treatment options. AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and selectivity of the natural alkaloid pilocarpine through molecular docking analysis against major ocular targets, with the aim of exploring opportunities for the development of new bioproducts. METHODS: Molecular docking of pilocarpine was performed against the muscarinic M₃ receptor, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), carbonic anhydrase II (CAII), prostaglandin D synthase (PTGDS), and the ABCG2 transporter. A protein-protein interaction network analysis using STRING was also conducted to assess functional relationships. RESULTS: The analysis revealed a strong affinity of pilocarpine for the M₃ receptor and no significant interactions with other targets, emphasizing its specificity and potential for safe application. Network data highlighted the multisystem nature of glaucoma and the need for multitarget therapeutic strategies. CONCLUSION: The findings underscore the potential of natural alkaloids in glaucoma therapy and the importance of a multidisciplinary approach. Given the high social burden of the disease, strategic involvement of optometrists in primary screening and prevention efforts is critical for early detection and effective risk management of blindness.