Carbon Monoxide Therapy: Evidence and Prospects for Preventing and Treating Ocular Diseases

Carbon monoxide (CO) therapy involves the controlled administration of low doses of CO to harness its cytoprotective properties, including anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and vasodilatory effects. Originally studied for its role in cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions, CO therapy is now being explored for its potential in treating ocular diseases. Traditionally recognized for its toxic effects, carbon monoxide is gaining attention as a promising therapeutic agent in ocular medicine. Controlled, low-dose CO therapy has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic benefits in various models of retinal disease, including retinal ischemia-reperfusion injury, optic nerve crush, ocular hypertension, and autoimmune uveitis. This review summarizes key findings from clinical and preclinical studies, highlighting the therapeutic potential of CO. We also explore current and emerging methods of CO delivery, evaluating their safety, efficacy, and applicability in treating retinal disorders.