In a previous study, we demonstrated that AAV mediated BDNF expression rescued retinal ganglion cells and visual functions up to 70 weeks after an acute elevation of intraocular pressure. Here, we went on to show that BDNF activated TrkB receptors and subsequently downstream ERK pathway. The mitochondrial functions as measured by membrane potential and ATPase activity and the function of axon transport were all significantly improved by BDNF.