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Updated: Jun 27, 2026
A Protocol to Evaluate and Quantify Retinal Pigmented Epithelium Pathologies in Mouse Models of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Published on: March 10, 2023
[Histopathological study of epiretinal membranes in retinopathy of prematurity]
Ping Fei1, Pei-Quan Zhao, Rong-Jia Chen
1Department of Ophthalmology, EENT Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
Objective:
To study the pathological characteristics of epiretinal membranes (ERMs) in retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), and to discuss the pathogenesis of ROP.
Methods:
It was a retrospective case series. Thirty-four ERMs obtained from twenty-four patients with stage 5 ROP during open-sky vitrectomy were examined by light microscopy (HE staining). Fifteen ERMs of them were examined by transmission electron microscopy. Glial fibrillary acidic protein staining (GFAP) of two ERMs were observed. Spearman rank correlation analysis of SPSS 11.0 software and random-effects model of STATA 7.0 software were used to make statistical analysis.
Results:
Collagen was the main component of the ERMs. The amount of neovascularization was highly correlated with the age and postconceptual age (r = - 0.469, -0.482; P <0.05, respectively), but no statistically significant correlation with the gestational age and birth weight (r = - 0.179, - 0.272; P > 0.05). The amount of the fibroblasts varied in different specimens. It was related to the gestational age, age and postconceptual age (Z = -1.99, -3.45, -3.64; P <0.05). No obvious relationship was found between the amount of the fibroblasts and the birth weight (Z = 0.21, P > 0.05). Electron microscopy showed a wide variety of cell types, which scattered in the ERMs, including fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, vascular endothelial cells, macrophages and other inflammatory cells. GFAP staining of the ERMs was positive, and staining positive cells were mostly distributed on the retinal side of the ERMs.
Conclusions:
Fibroblasts and myofibroblasts were the main cells of the ERM of ROP. The regression of the ERM of ROP was correlated to the actual age and postconceptual age, and it had no relationship with the birth weight. The glial cells played an important role in the progression of ROP.
Insights
Epiretinal membranes (ERMs) in retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) are primarily composed of fibroblasts and myofibroblasts. Their regression correlates with age, not birth weight, with glial cells playing a key role.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pathology
- Cell Biology
Context:
- Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a leading cause of childhood blindness.
- Epiretinal membranes (ERMs) are a common complication in advanced ROP.
- Understanding ERM pathogenesis is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose:
- To elucidate the cellular and molecular composition of ERMs in ROP.
- To investigate the correlation between ERM characteristics and clinical factors.
- To explore the role of glial cells in ROP progression.
Summary:
- Retrospective case series analyzing 34 ERMs from 24 patients with stage 5 ROP.
- Light and transmission electron microscopy revealed collagen as the main component, with fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, and inflammatory cells present.
- Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) staining was positive, indicating glial cell involvement.
- Neovascularization correlated with age and postconceptual age, while fibroblast presence related to gestational age, age, and postconceptual age.
Impact:
- Identifies fibroblasts and myofibroblasts as key cellular components of ROP-associated ERMs.
- Establishes correlations between ERM regression and patient age, highlighting the dynamic nature of these membranes.
- Underscores the significant role of glial cells in the pathogenesis and progression of ROP, informing future therapeutic strategies.
