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Retinal Laser Therapy Preserves Photoreceptors in a Rodent Model of MERTK-Related Retinitis Pigmentosa

Seungbum Kang1, Henri Lorach2,3, Mohajeet B Bhuckory2,3

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Republic of Korea.

Translational Vision Science & Technology
|August 13, 2019
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Pattern laser photocoagulation, targeting about 15% of photoreceptors, offers long-term preservation in a model of retinitis pigmentosa (RP). This approach may help preserve sight in patients with photoreceptor degeneration.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Retinal Degeneration Research
  • Biomedical Engineering

Background:

  • Mer tyrosine kinase receptor (MERTK)-related retinitis pigmentosa (RP) leads to photoreceptor degeneration.
  • Effective therapeutic strategies for preserving photoreceptor function in RP are urgently needed.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy of different retinal laser therapies in preserving photoreceptors in a rodent model of MERTK-related RP.
  • To determine the optimal pattern density for photocoagulation to maximize photoreceptor preservation.

Main Methods:

  • RCS rats received laser treatments including photocoagulation (various densities), selective RPE therapy (SRT), and nondamaging retinal therapy (NRT).
  • Photocoagulation densities ranged from 0.5 to 5 spot diameters spacing.
  • Functional and morphological outcomes were assessed for 6 months post-treatment via electroretinography, OCT, and histology.

Main Results:

  • Pattern photocoagulation demonstrated long-term photoreceptor preservation, with the 1.5 spot diameter spacing yielding the best morphologic and functional results.
  • SRT provided short-term morphologic preservation but no functional benefit.
  • NRT did not show any significant preservation benefit.

Conclusions:

  • Pattern photocoagulation, specifically at a 1.5 spot diameter spacing (approximately 15% photoreceptor coverage), effectively preserves photoreceptors long-term in a MERTK-related RP model.
  • The findings suggest that retinal laser therapies, particularly pattern photocoagulation, are translatable to clinical practice for treating photoreceptor degeneration.
Keywords:
RCS ratnondamaging retinal laser therapy (NRT)pattern scanning photocoagulationphotoreceptors preservationselective RPE therapy (SRT)

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