Abstract: Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGC), the third class of photoreceptors discovered in recent years, play a key role in non-image-forming visual functions such as the pupillary light reflex and circadian rhythm regulation. Glaucoma, characterized by the progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells, is often associated with impairment of these non-image-forming visual functions. Studies have shown that ipRGC exhibit relative resistance to glaucomatous damage; however, as the disease progresses, their function gradually declines, leading to abnormalities in the pupillary light response and disruptions in circadian rhythms. These characteristics of ipRGC offer new perspectives on the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma:  on one hand, chromatic pupillometry can be used to assess ipRGC function, providing insight into the extent of disease progression; on the other hand, interventions such as optimizing light exposure and melatonin supplementation may help stabilize circadian rhythms, potentially offering effective strategies to improve patients' quality of life.

Key words: Intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cell, Glaucoma, Non-imaging visual function, Chromatic pupillometry