Blocking of retrograde transport after the optic nerve injury results in deprivation of neurotrophic support to retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), and leads to apoptotic cell death in glaucoma. As an important member of neurotrophins, the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plays a substantial role in the repair of retinal ganglion cells injury, but its signaling pathway in the pathogenesis of glaucoma remains unclear. This review focuses on the structure, distribution and receptors of BDNF and its effects on RGC survival, axon regeneration and relevant signaling pathway, to provide theoretical foundation for neuroprotective treatment of glaucoma.