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Degenerative changes in maculas of rhesus monkeys
H M Engel1, W W Dawson, R J Ulshafer
1Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville.
Summary
A pilot study found that aged rhesus monkeys exhibit macular drusen and retinal pigment epithelium changes, suggesting their potential as an animal model for early age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Further studies confirmed similar ultrastructural features to human AMD.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Primate Research
- Gerontology
Background:
- Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss.
- Identifying a suitable animal model is crucial for studying AMD pathogenesis and developing treatments.
- Rhesus monkeys are phylogenetically close to humans, making them potential candidates for AMD modeling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of AMD-like features in aged rhesus monkeys.
- To evaluate the suitability of rhesus monkeys as an animal model for age-related macular degeneration.
Main Methods:
- Examination of 29 aged rhesus monkeys from a seminatural colony.
- Ophthalmoscopy, fluorescein angiography, and electrophysiological studies.
- Histopathological and transmission electron microscopy analysis of ocular tissues.
Main Results:
- Macular drusen were observed in 74% of monkey eyes, with retinal pigment epithelium alterations in 45%.
- Fluorescein angiography showed window defects consistent with drusen.
- Histopathology confirmed drusen with ultrastructural similarities to human AMD.
Conclusions:
- Aged rhesus monkeys display key pathological features of early age-related macular degeneration.
- These findings support the use of rhesus monkeys as a valuable animal model for AMD research.
- Further investigation is warranted to explore therapeutic interventions in this model.