The present invention provides a GLAST knockout mouse lacking the function
of an endogenous glutamate transporter GLAST gene, which shows: 1) an
intraocular pressure within the normal range; and 2) a reduction in the
number of cells in the retinal ganglions when compared with a wild-type
normal mouse. Owing to the ocular properties, this knockout mouse is
useful as a model for normal tension glaucoma. By using this knockout
mouse, a compound useful for the treatment of normal tension glaucoma can
be screened.