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An Alkali-burn Injury Model of Corneal Neovascularization in the Mouse
Published on: April 7, 2014
Detailed protocol for a corneal thermal cauterization-based (lymph-)angiogenesis assay in mice
Anh-Co K Truong1, Lisa M Becker1, Nora Dekoning1,2
1Laboratory of Angiogenesis and Vascular Metabolism, Department of Oncology and Leuven Cancer Institute (LKI), KU Leuven, VIB Center for Cancer Biology, VIB, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
Methodsx
|November 6, 2023
Summary
A standardized protocol for the corneal thermal cauterization assay in mice is presented. This simple, low-cost method effectively measures inflammation-induced angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis, crucial for disease research.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Biology
- Ophthalmology
- Inflammation Research
Background:
- Angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis are vital for development and implicated in diseases like cancer and ocular disorders.
- Inflammation is a common factor in pathological angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis.
- A reliable assay for inflammation-induced neovascularization is highly valuable.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a standardized, step-by-step protocol for the corneal thermal cauterization assay in mice.
- To facilitate reproducible assessment of inflammation-induced angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis.
- To offer guidance on ethical considerations and animal welfare for this model.
Main Methods:
- Standardized thermal cauterization of mouse corneas.
- Detailed procedures for corneal enucleation and dissection.
- Immunofluorescence staining and morphometric analysis of neovasculature.
Main Results:
- A comprehensive, reproducible protocol for the corneal thermal cauterization assay.
- Demonstration of the assay's feasibility for studying angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis.
- Guidelines for ethical animal handling and welfare.
Conclusions:
- The standardized protocol enhances the reproducibility of the corneal thermal cauterization model.
- This assay is a valuable tool for researching inflammation-driven angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis.
- Facilitates wider adoption and application in disease research.
