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In Vivo Multimodal Imaging and Analysis of Mouse Laser-Induced Choroidal Neovascularization Model
Published on: January 21, 2018
A novel imaging technique for experimental choroidal neovascularization.
Mercedes Campos1, Juan Amaral, S Patricia Becerra
1Biological Imaging Core, National Eye Institute, NIH, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-0703, USA.
Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science
|November 24, 2006
Summary
A new imaging method visualizes and quantifies choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in rats. This technique offers detailed insights into early CNV development and provides more accurate preclinical evaluations than existing methods.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Medical Imaging
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is a leading cause of blindness.
- Current imaging techniques have limitations in visualizing early CNV development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel 3D imaging technique for laser-induced CNV in rats.
- To enable detailed morphologic analysis of early CNV stages.
Main Methods:
- Laser-induced CNV in rat eyes.
- Fluorescent labeling of nuclei, endothelial cells, microglia, and actin.
- Confocal microscopy and 3D reconstruction of flatmounted choroid/RPE specimens.
- Comparison with FITC-dextran perfusion.
Main Results:
- The technique successfully visualized disruption of the choroid-Bruch's membrane-RPE complex.
- Early cellular proliferation, migration, and vascular tube formation were detailed.
- CNV volume increased exponentially and was preserved for weeks.
- Lectin-labeling provided more accurate volume measurements than FITC-dextran.
Conclusions:
- A novel 3D imaging technique accurately visualizes and quantifies laser-induced CNV.
- This method enhances the study of early CNV events, including Bruch's membrane rupture.
- It offers a more reproducible and accurate preclinical evaluation of antiangiogenic therapies.
