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A Laser-induced Mouse Model of Chronic Ocular Hypertension to Characterize Visual Defects
Published on: August 14, 2013
Increased intraocular pressure in mice treated with dexamethasone
N Andrew Whitlock1, Beth McKnight, Katie N Corcoran
1Department of Ophthalmology, Lexicon Pharmaceuticals, Inc., The Woodlands, TX 77381, USA. awhitlock@lexpharma.com
Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science
|July 31, 2010
Summary
Systemic dexamethasone increased intraocular pressure (IOP) in most mice, establishing a new model for steroid-induced ocular hypertension. This research offers insights into primary open-angle glaucoma mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Immunology
- Genetics
Background:
- Glucocorticoids modulate the immune system and treat diseases but can elevate intraocular pressure (IOP).
- Steroid-induced ocular hypertension shares traits with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG).
- Understanding steroid-induced ocular hypertension may reveal POAG drivers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel mouse model for studying steroid-induced ocular hypertension.
Main Methods:
- Dexamethasone or PBS delivered via osmotic mini-pumps to B6.129 mice.
- Repeated IOP measurements over 4 weeks using a tonometer.
- Characterization included body weight, CBCs, blood pressure, and testing IOP-lowering agents.
Main Results:
- Dexamethasone significantly increased IOP in most B6.129 mice; PBS did not.
- A subset of mice showed no IOP increase despite successful steroid delivery.
- IOP-lowering agents effectively reduced elevated IOP in dexamethasone-treated mice.
Conclusions:
- Systemic dexamethasone successfully induced ocular hypertension in a majority of genetically heterogeneous mice.
- This mouse model is valuable for investigating mechanisms of steroid-induced ocular hypertension and its relation to POAG.
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