Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide and belongs to age-related diseases. However, its pathogenesis is not fully understood. Primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG), pseudoexfoliative (PE) glaucoma are the most common forms of glaucoma. Increased intraocular pressure (IOP) is one of the main risk factors for glaucoma progression. The trabecular meshwork participates in regulating and maintaining a constant level of IOP throughout life. Impairment of intercellular

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... interactions, development of cellular dysfunction and the associated imbalance of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines and growth factors underlie the development of most age-related diseases. The role of chronic inflammation, changes in innate and acquired immunity in the development of glaucoma is currently being discussed. Aqueous humor (AH) contains cytokines and growth factors, which are the most important link in the processes of intercellular interaction and are produced by cells of various structures of the eye both in physiological and in pathological conditions. The study of the spectrum, levels, and ratio of different mediator molecules in patients with glaucoma has not yet had a systematic approach. The data obtained are contradictory, which is due to the use of various biological fluids (plasma, AH, tear), determination methods, and the variability of the studied groups of patients. The purpose of this review was to systematize the accumulated knowledge about the role of cytokines and immune system cells in the pathogenesis of glaucoma. Research in this direction will not only reveal new predictive biomarkers, but also develop new approaches in glaucoma therapy.