The novel model: Experimental optical coherence tomography-guided anterior segment imaging chick embryo model

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Developmental Biology
• Biomedical Imaging

Background:

• The anterior segment (AS) of the eye is crucial for vision, and its developmental abnormalities can lead to significant visual impairment.
• Studying human AS development and malformations in vivo is challenging due to ethical and practical limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish and validate an experimental chick embryo model for anterior segment (AS) imaging using optical coherence tomography (OCT).
• To quantitatively analyze similarities and differences between human and chick embryo AS tissues.
• To assess the feasibility of using spectral-domain OCT (SD-OCT) for detailed AS imaging in this model.

Main Methods:

• Fertilized chick embryos (n=10) were imaged on day 20 using spectral-domain OCT (SD-OCT) for detailed AS camera analysis.
• Quantitative image analysis of anterior chamber tissues was performed using SD-OCT.
• Histological examination of chick embryo globes was conducted and compared with human AS tissue data.

Main Results:

• SD-OCT successfully visualized key AS structures in chick embryos, including the cornea, iris, lens, and anterior chamber.
• Quantitative measurements revealed mean central corneal thickness of 213.4 μm, anterior chamber depth of 878.9 μm, and iris thickness of 230.4 μm.
• Histological comparisons demonstrated significant similarities between chick embryo and human AS tissues.

Conclusions:

• The chick embryo model provides a viable platform for studying teratogen-induced malformations and AS dysgenesis.
• SD-OCT is effective for quantitative assessment of AS structures in this chick embryo model.
• This model facilitates research into human AS development and disease.