Retinal ganglion cell protection with geranylgeranylacetone,a heat shock protein inducer,in a rat glaucoma model

PURPOSE: To study the effects of geranylgeranylacetone (GGA) on the expression of inducible (HSP72) and constitutive (HSC70) heat shock proteins (HSPs) on retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in a rat model of glaucoma. METHODS: Adult Wistar rats were given intraperitoneal injections of GGA at 200 mg/kg daily. Western blot analysis and immunohistochemical staining for HSP72 and HSC70 were performed after 1, 3, and 7 days of treatment with GGA. After 7 days of GGA pretreatment, intraocular pressure (IOP) was elevated unilaterally by repeated trabecular argon laser photocoagulation 5 days after intracameral injection of india ink. After the first laser photocoagulation, GGA was administered twice a week. RGC survival was evaluated after 5 weeks of elevated IOP. Immunohistochemistry and TdT-mediated biotin-dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) were performed after 1 week of elevated IOP. Quercetin, an inhibitor of HSP expression, was also administered to a separate group. RESULTS: There was increased expression of HSP72 in RGCs at 3 and 7 days after administration of GGA, but HSC70 was unchanged. After 5 weeks of elevated IOP, there was a 27% +/- 6% loss of RGCs. The administration of GGA significantly reduced the loss of RGCs, lessened optic nerve damage, decreased the number of TUNEL-positive cells in the RGC layer, and increased HSP72. Quercetin abolished these protective effects. CONCLUSIONS: These results demonstrate that systemic administration of GGA protects RGCs from glaucomatous damage in a rat model and suggest a novel pathway for neuroprotection in patients with glaucoma.     

A rat model of glaucoma induced by episcleral vein ligation

To establish a reliable animal model of glaucoma, we examined if episcleral vein ligation in rat eyes can induce intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation and concomitant characteristic morphological features of glaucoma. IOP elevation was detected on the next day (30.1+/-4.4 mmHg: operated eyes; 21.0+/-1.8 mmHg: control eyes) and persisted at least 7 months after the procedure (24.5+/-2.3 mmHg: operated eyes; 19.7+/-1.9 mmHg: control eyes). These results suggest that episcleral vein ligation can induce very mild IOP elevation immediately after the operation, which can last over several months. Furthermore, it appears there was little variability in the patterns of IOP elevation among the individual eyes treated with episcleral vein ligation. Morphological changes were detected selectively in the retinal ganglion cell (RGC) layer and optic disc excavation was evident in the late stage of chronic IOP elevation. RGCs were selectively lost by apoptotic death. The number of RGCs was reduced by 18% at 12 weeks and eventually by 35% at 8 months postoperatively. Müller cells downregulated the expression of p27Kip1 and appeared to be partially in a reactive state even at the advanced stages of glaucoma. The expression of basic fibroblast growth factor and ciliary neurotrophic factor, which are neurotrophic factors implicated in the control of cell survivals and neuroprotection, significantly declined at the advanced stages. Taken altogether, these observations indicate that the episcleral vein ligation model based on the simple ligation procedure reproducibly provides a reliable glaucoma model and contributes to give insights into the underlying molecular and cellular bases of human glaucoma and to devise the new medication upon the disease.     

Expression of phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal protein kinase (JNK) in experimental glaucoma in rats

To examine the expression of phosphorylated c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) in cells in the retinal ganglion cell layer of glaucoma, intraocular pressure (IOP) of adult Wistar rats was elevated unilaterally by repeated trabecular argon laser photocoagulation 5 days after intracameral injection of India ink. Animals were euthanized after 3 days, and 1, 2, and 5 weeks of IOP elevation. Immunohistochemistry with specific antibodies against phosphorylated JNK was performed on retinas. Retrograde labeling using Fluorogold and fluorescence immunohistochemistry was performed on retinas 5 weeks after IOP elevation. TdT-mediated biotin-dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) was performed on the retinal sections to determine the rate of cell death. There was increased IOP (52.3%) from 3 days to 5 weeks after repeated trabecular laser photocoagulation. Mean number of TUNEL-positive cells in the retinal ganglion cell layer of eyes with experimental glaucoma was 0.43, 0.36, 0.57, and 0.19 per retinal section at 3 days, and 1, 2 and 5 weeks, respectively. No TUNEL-positive cells were noted in controls. In parallel to TUNEL, significantly increased numbers of phosphorylated JNK-labeled cells in the retinal ganglion cell layer were noted at 3 days (9.95 versus 4.15; P=0.005), 1 week (7.65 versus 4.00; P=0.006), 2 weeks (9.13 versus 4.48; P=0.032), and 5 weeks (8.06 versus 4.96; P=0.017) of IOP elevation when compared with contralateral control eyes. Fluorogold labeled RGCs were co-localized with increased phosphorylated JNK immunoreactivity. Some TUNEL-positive cells were phosphorylated JNK immuno-positive. Phosphorylation of JNK occurs in experimental glaucoma and may play a role in retinal ganglion cell death.     

Topically administered timolol and dorzolamide reduce intraocular pressure and protect retinal ganglion cells in a rat experimental glaucoma model

AIMS: This study sought to elucidate the effects of timolol and dorzolamide on intraocular pressure (IOP) and retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death in an experimental model of glaucoma in rat. METHODS: Mild elevation of IOP was induced in rats by intracameral injection of India ink and subsequent laser trabecular photocoagulation. IOP was measured before the surgical procedures and weekly thereafter. Timolol (0.5%), timolol XE (0.5%), dorzolamide (1%), and artificial tears (vehicle) were topically applied daily. Retinal sections were prepared for histology to determine RGC number. RESULTS: Timolol, timolol XE, and dorzolamide induced a significant reduction in IOP (p<0.05) and counteracted the reduction in RGC number that occurred in vehicle treated glaucomatous eyes (p<0.05). The coefficient of correlation between RGC number and IOP was significant in the dorzolamide treated group (r = -0.908, p<0.005), but not in other groups (p>0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Both timolol formulation and dorzolamide reduced IOP and protected RGCs in a rat model of experimental glaucoma. It cannot be ruled out that timolol might protect RGCs by additional mechanisms other than simply lowering of IOP.     

Induction of heat shock protein 72 protects retinal ganglion cells in a rat glaucoma model

PURPOSE: To investigate whether heat shock protein (Hsp) 72 is induced in retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in experimental rat glaucoma and whether the induction of Hsp72 by heat stress or zinc (Zn(2+)) administration can increase survival of RGCs in the model. METHODS: Intraocular pressure (IOP) was elevated unilaterally in Wistar rats with argon laser irradiation of the trabecular meshwork 5 days after intracameral injection of india ink. Immunohistochemical staining for Hsp72 was performed. The rats with elevated IOP were treated with heat stress once a week (six rats) or intraperitoneal injection of zinc (10 mg/kg) every two weeks (six rats). Untreated rats with elevated IOP served as a control group (six rats). Quercetin, an inhibitor of Hsp expression was injected in the rats with heat stress (six rats) and zinc injection (seven rats). Subsequent to 4 weeks of IOP elevation, RGCs were counted. RESULTS: The IOP increase compared with the contralateral eyes was 48% +/- 4% throughout the study period. Hsp72 was detected only in the eyes with elevated IOP at 1 and 2 days and was weakly detected at 1 week of IOP elevation. A single administration of zinc strongly induced Hsp72 in RGCs of rats with elevated IOP for 2 weeks. Treatment with heat stress or zinc in rats with elevated IOP increased RGC survival after 4 weeks of IOP elevation, compared with the untreated control group (P = 0.004, n = 6). Quercetin reversed the positive effect of heat stress or zinc injection on RGC survival. CONCLUSIONS: These results demonstrate the possibility of a novel therapeutic approach to glaucoma through an enhanced induction of the endogenous heat shock response.     

Neuroprotective and intraocular pressure-lowering effects of (-)Delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol in a rat model of glaucoma

In glaucoma, retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death is induced by many risk factors, including ocular hypertension. It has been proposed that glutamate-mediated oxidative stress may also contribute to this RGC death. Cannabinoids are known to possess therapeutic properties including ocular hypotension and antioxidation. In this study, we test the hypothesis that (-)Delta(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) lowers intraocular pressure (IOP) and prevents RGC death in a rat model of glaucoma. Arat model of experimental glaucoma with chronic, moderately elevated IOP was produced unilaterally by cauterization of episcleral vessels. Rats received weekly injections of THC at a level of 5 mg/kg or vehicle for 20 weeks. IOP of both eyes was measured weekly on anesthetized animals immediately before THC treatment. RGCs were labeled in a retrograde fashion and counted in whole-mounted retinas. IOP was elevated in all operated eyes 1 day after the operation and remained elevated in the vehicle-treated rats throughout 20 weeks. In THC-treated rats, IOP elevation in operated eyes was diminished 2 weeks after operation and remained reduced. IOP in the contralateral control eyes was not affected by THC. In the operated eyes of vehicle-treated animals, there was a loss of approximately 50 and 40% of the RGCs in the peripheral and central retina, respectively. The RGC loss in the operated eyes of the THC-treated animals was reduced to 10-20%. These results demonstrate that THC is a neuroprotectant that preserves RGCs in an experimental model of glaucoma, possibly through a reduction in IOP.     

大鼠实验性慢性高眼压对视网膜神经节细胞的损伤

目的:制作高眼压大鼠模型,观察高眼压对视神经的损害。方法:成年Wistar雄性大鼠65只,烧灼右眼上方2支和外侧1支巩膜上静脉,建立慢性高眼压模型。左眼作为对照眼。对造模成功的,分别于造模后1d,1,2,3,4,6,8,10wk各摘除6只大鼠双眼。在取出眼球前24h,用Fluoro-gold进行视网膜神经节细胞(retinal ganglion cells,RGC)逆行性染色,做视网膜铺片计数RGC,观察不同时段高眼压对RGC的影响。结果:右眼巩膜上静脉烧灼后各时间点造模眼平均眼压分别为42.2±1.8mmHg,37.9±2.3mmHg,36.1±2.0mmHg,33.6±2.2mmHg,32.2±2.4mmHg,30.1±2.0mmHg,30.5±2.1mmHg和27.6±1.3mmHg。术后各时间点的成模率分别为80.0%,76.9%,74.5%,71.7%,63.8%,56.1%,42.9%,41.4%。成模率和成模眼的眼压随时间延长呈下降趋势。实验组和对照组的RGC密度在早期(巩膜上静脉烧灼术后3wk内)没有显著差别。造模后4wk高眼压组RGC密度明显低于对照组(P<0.05),随着时间的推移差别越来越显著。结论:巩膜上静脉烧灼法能诱导出持续的肯定的大鼠慢性高眼压模型,成模眼的眼压和随时间而下降。高眼压持续的时间越长,RGC的损失越多。     

Pattern electroretinography in a rat model of ocular hypertension: functional evidence for early detection of inner retinal damage

With the increasing use of the rat as an animal model for glaucoma and for the evaluation of neuroprotective treatments, there is a need for a sensitive test of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) function in this species. The aims of this study were to detect functional abnormalities of the inner retina in a rat model of high intraocular pressure (IOP) using the pattern electroretinogram (PERG), and to correlate them with morphometric analysis of RGC survival and the functional integrity of the inner retina. Unilateral ocular hypertension was induced in 17 Lewis rats through laser photocoagulation. Pattern ERGs were recorded prior to lasering and 3 weeks later, using a series of shifting patterns of decreasing spatial frequency projected directly onto the animals' fundus. IOP was measured at the same intervals, and the number of surviving RGCs estimated. Low amplitude PERG signals could be recorded in response to a narrow grating of 0.368 cycles per degree (cpd), and increased with stimulus size. Lasering caused mean (+/-s.d.) IOP to increase significantly from 18.3+/-4.5 (baseline) to 29.8+/-8.8 mmHg within 3 weeks (p<0.0001). At this time, PERG amplitudes were significantly reduced (p<0.05), declining an average of 45% compared to the normotensive, control eyes. No outer retinal damage was observed, but the mean number of RGCs decreased significantly (p<0.001), from 2 525.0+/-372.4 to 1 542.8+/-333.8 cells per mm2.This decrease in RGC number was significantly (p=0.03) correlated the decrease in PERG amplitude. The correlation between functional integrity of the inner retina and the rat PERG was further demonstrated by intravitreal tetrodotoxin injections, which temporarily abolished the PERG but did not affect outer retinal activity, reflected in the flash ERG. The evidence for early functional deficits, combined with tonometry and documentation of correlated ganglion cells loss, confirms the sensitivity of this diagnostic tool and the validity and importance of this animal model in glaucoma research.     

Longitudinal non-invasive proton NMR spectroscopy measurement of vitreous lactate in a rabbit model of ocular hypertension

To determine whether vitreous lactate concentrations are correlated with intraocular pressure (IOP) rise, retinal ganglion cell (RGC) damage, and nerve fiber layer (NFL) thickness decrease in a rabbit model of ocular hypertension. Also, to learn whether proton nuclear magnetic resonance ((1)H-NMR) spectroscopy can provide sequential, non-invasive in vivo measurements of vitreous lactate. Intra-anterior chamber injections of 20-mum latex beads were used to impede aqueous drainage in New Zealand White rabbits, causing an elevation of IOP. Group I consisted of 12 rabbits in which unilateral elevations in IOP were achieved. Group II consisted of 6 rabbits in which treatment did not cause a change in IOP. The contralateral eye served as a control in both groups. Control eyes received an equal volume injection of vehicle only. IOP was measured for two pre-treatment days and then on post-treatment days 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 16, 23, 30, and 37. (1)H-NMR spectroscopy was used to measure changes in vitreous lactate concentrations that may be associated with the onset and progression of the pathophysiology. Post-mortem histochemical analysis at the light microscope level was used to quantify changes in the retinal NFL thickness and in the numbers of RGC, and correlate them with IOP and percent change in lactate levels. Baseline IOP in Group I control and treated eyes were 12.0+/-1.9 and 12.5+/-1.3 mmHg, respectively. Between days 5 and 9 post-treatment, the IOP in Group I treated eyes (n=12) rose to 23.9+/-4.2 mmHg. IOP in the control eyes remained unchanged (12.0+/-1.6). Vitreous lactate levels in Group I treated eyes increased by 100%, from pre-treatment values. Levels in control eyes remained unchanged. In Group I, IOP and percent change in lactate concentration in treated eyes were closely correlated throughout the study period (r=0.95; p< or =0.05). Group II control and treated eyes showed no significant changes in either IOP or lactate. Group I treated eyes had a reduced NFL thickness (65+/- 4 microm; n=5) at the temporal medullary ray (MR) compared with control eyes (45+/-6 microm). A smaller reduction was found in the nasal MR areas, where thickness was 53+/-3 microm in treated eyes and 66+/-4 microm in control eyes. RGC numbers also were decreased in the treated eyes (241,222+/-10,920 cells) vs. 322,311+/-8726 cells in control eyes. TdT-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) indicated that RGC loss in the treated eyes was most likely due to apoptosis. In vivo changes in lactate can be monitored non-invasively over time using (1)H-NMR spectroscopy. Vitreous lactate concentrations increased and returned to baseline concurrently with IOP. The brief elevation in IOP produced a reduction in both the RGC cell numbers and in the thickness of the NFL.     

Neuroprotective effects of R(-)-1-(benzo[b]thiophen-5-yl)-2- [2-(N,N-diethylamino)ethoxy]ethanol hydrochloride (T-588) against retinal ganglion cell death induced by elevated intraocular pressure in rat

PURPOSE: We investigated whether T-588 can attenuate retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death induced by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). METHODS: IOP elevation was induced unilaterally by argon laser irradiation of the rat trabecular meshwork 4 days after an intracameral injection of India ink. We orally administered either the vehicle, or 10, 30, or 100 mg/kg body weight (BW) of T-588 24 hours before the laser application. Five days after the laser application, 1.5 microL of 3% Fast Blue was injected into the superior colliculi bilaterally. Three days after the Fast Blue injection, the eye was enucleated and the retinal whole flatmount was prepared. Labeled ganglion cells were counted by fluorescence microscope with an ultraviolet filter. RESULTS: Laser treatment significantly increased the IOP. The percentages of labeled RGCs in the lasered eyes as compared with the nonlasered contralateral eyes were 78.0 +/- 11.6% in the control group, 78.7 +/- 12.9% in the 10 mg/kg BW group, 79.1 +/- 13.0% in the 30 mg/kg BW group, and 91.0 +/- 9.0% in the 100 mg/kg BW T-588-treated group. The survival rate of RGCs was significantly higher in the 100 mg/kg BW T-588-treated group than in the control group. CONCLUSION: T-588 appears to have a neuroprotective effect on retinal ganglion cells in this ocular hypertensive model.     

Simvastatin upregulates Bcl-2 expression and protects retinal neurons from early ischemia/reperfusion injury in the rat retina

Simvastatin has been shown to enhance the survival of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) following ischemia-reperfusion (IR) injury by mediating the expression of stress proteins. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of simvastatin on retinal neurons and the expression of apoptotic proteins in a rat IR model. Wistar rats received intravitreal injection of simvastatin immediately after retinal reperfusion. Retinal ischemia was induced by increasing intraocular pressure to 150 mmHg for 60 min. The number of viable RGCs was measured after retrograde labeling with Fluoro-Gold. Ischemia-induced apoptotic cell death was studied using terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL). We found that simvastatin treatment enhanced RGC survival after retinal ischemia by approximately 40% and decreased retinal neuronal apoptosis. Using western blot analysis, we found that simvastatin upregulated the expression of Bcl-2 in the retina. In contrast, the level of the protein Bax was unaffected by simvastatin treatment. Our results suggest that RGC loss induced by retinal IR may be prevented by simvastatin and that the mechanism underlying this process possibly involves an alteration in the apoptotic pathway.     

Three experimental glaucoma models in rats: comparison of the effects of intraocular pressure elevation on retinal ganglion cell size and death

Glaucoma is a chronic and progressive optic nerve neuropathy involving the death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) is considered to be the major risk factor associated with the development of this neuropathy. The objective of the present study was to compare the effects on RGC survival of three different experimental methods to induce chronic elevation of IOP in rats. These methods were: (i) injections of latex microspheres into the eye anterior chamber; (ii) injections into the anterior chamber of a mixture of microspheres plus hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPM) and (iii) cauterization of three episcleral veins. The IOP of right (control) and left (glaucomatous) eyes was measured with an applanation tonometer in awake animals. Thirteen to 30 weeks later, RGCs were retrogradely labeled with 3% fluorogold. Subsequently, we analyzed the density of RGCs, as well as the major axis length and area of RGC soma resulting from the application of each method. A significant increase in IOP was found following application of each of the three methods. Cell death was evident in the glaucomatous eyes as compared to controls. However, no statistical differences were found between the extent of cell death associated with each of the three methods. IOP increase also induced a significant increase in the size of the soma of the remaining RGCs. In conclusion, the three methods used to increase IOP induce a similar degree of RGC death. Moreover, the extent of cell death was similar when the retinas were maintained under conditions of elevated IOP for 24 weeks in comparison to 13 weeks.     

Translimbal laser photocoagulation to the trabecular meshwork as a model of glaucoma in rats

PURPOSE: To develop and characterize a model of pressure-induced optic neuropathy in rats. METHODS: Experimental glaucoma was induced unilaterally in 174 Wistar rats, using a diode laser with wavelength of 532 nm aimed at the trabecular meshwork and episcleral veins (combination treatment group) or only at the trabecular meshwork (trabecular group) through the external limbus. Intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured by a tonometer in rats under ketamine-xylazine anesthesia. Possible retinal vascular compromise was evaluated by repeated fundus examinations and by histology. The degree of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) loss was assessed by a masked, semiautomated counting of optic nerve axons. Effects of laser treatment on anterior ocular structures and retina were judged by light microscopy. RESULTS: After the laser treatment, IOP was increased in all eyes to higher than the normal mean IOP of 19.4 +/- 2.1 mm Hg (270 eyes). Peak IOP was 49.0 +/- 6.1 mm Hg (n = 108) in the combination group that was treated by a laser setting of 0.7 seconds and 0.4 W and 34.0 +/- 5.7 mm Hg (n = 46) in the trabecular group. Mean IOP after 6 weeks was 25.5 +/- 2.9 mm Hg in glaucomatous eyes in the combination group compared with 22.0 +/- 1.8 mm Hg in the trabecular group. IOP in the glaucomatous eyes was typically higher than in the control eyes for at least 3 weeks. In the combination group, RGC loss was 16.1% +/- 14.4% at 1 week (n = 8, P = 0.01), 59.7% +/- 25.7% at 6 weeks (n = 88, P < 0.001), and 70.9% +/- 23.6% at 9 weeks (n = 12, P < 0.001). The trabecular group had mean axonal loss of 19.1% +/- 14.0% at 3 weeks (n = 9, P = 0.004) and 24.3% +/- 20.2% at 6 weeks (n = 25, P < 0.001), increasing to 48.4% +/- 32.8% at 9 weeks (n = 12, P < 0.001). Laser treatment led to closure of intertrabecular spaces and the major outflow channel. The retina and choroid were normal by ophthalmoscopy at all times after treatment. Light microscopic examination showed only loss of RGCs and their nerve fibers. CONCLUSIONS: Increased IOP caused by a laser injury to the trabecular meshwork represents a useful and efficient model of experimental glaucoma in rats.     

经房角镜光凝小梁网法建立慢性高眼压大鼠模型及其与经角膜缘光凝法的比较

背景 慢性高眼压动物模型的建立是青光眼发病机制研究的基础,以往激光光凝建立慢性高眼压动物模型的方法存在模型眼压波动大,需要重复光凝和并发症多的问题,造模方法的改良对于顺利开展相关的实验研究具有重要意义. 目的 用经房角镜光凝小梁网法建立大鼠慢性高眼模型,并与以往的经角膜缘光凝法进行比较. 方法 选取8 ～12周龄清洁级Fischer344大鼠36只,将动物分为正常对照组、经角膜缘光凝组和经房角镜光凝组,每组12只,经角膜缘光凝组采用532 nm YAG激光经角膜缘光凝大鼠右眼小梁网建立慢性高眼压模型,激光能量为440 ～ 500 mW,激射光斑40 ～ 60个;经房角镜光凝组激光能量为800 ～850 mW,激射光斑100～120个.光凝后用Tonolab眼压计测量并观察各组大鼠眼压变化;于光凝后第3周每组处死5只大鼠,分离视网膜,采用免疫荧光技术检测并比较各组大鼠视网膜中Tuj-1阳性的视网膜神经节细胞(RGCs)数目.实验动物的使用及喂养遵循ARVO声明.结果 造模后3周各组大鼠一般情况可,眼表无明显损伤.经角膜缘光凝组和房角镜光凝组慢性高眼压模型的成模率分别为75％和100％.正常对照组、经角膜缘光凝组和经房角镜光凝组大鼠模型眼造模后3周的平均眼压分别为(11.0±1.3)、(23.4±12.6)和(25.3±4.9)mmHg(1 mmHg=0.133 kPa),峰眼压分别为(12.3±1.0)、(50.5±7.3)和(44.3±12.3)mmHg,组间总体比较差异均有统计学意义(F=25.496、80.762,均P＜0.001),其中经角膜缘光凝组和经房角镜光凝组大鼠模型眼平均眼压均明显高于正常对照组,差异均有统计学意义(均P＜0.001),而2个组间平均眼压和峰眼压差异均无统计学意义(P=1.000、0.195).正常对照组、经角膜缘光凝组和经房角镜光凝组大鼠视网膜中Tuj-1阳性RGCs数目分别为(2 048.2±148.5)、(645.2±177.1)及(1 223.7±148.6)/mm2,总体比较差异有统计学意义(F=98.767,P＜0.001),其中经角膜缘光凝组和经房角镜光凝组大鼠视网膜中Tuj-1阳性RGCs数目均明显少于正常对照组,且经角膜缘光凝组大鼠视网膜中Tuj-1阳性RGCs数目明显少于经房角镜光凝组,差异均有统计学意义(均P＜0.01). 结论 经房角镜光凝小梁网能够诱导大鼠慢性高眼压并导致RGCs损害,但眼压升高模式及RGCs损害程度与经角膜缘光凝法有所不同,经房角镜光凝法建立慢性高眼压模型成模率更高.     

The pig eye as a novel model of glaucoma

We validated the pig eye as a model of glaucoma, based on chronic elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP). IOP was elevated by cauterising three episcleral veins in each of the left eyes of five adult pigs. Right eyes were used as controls. Measurement of IOP was performed during the experiment with an applanation tonometer (Tono-Pen). Five months after episcleral vein occlusion, retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) from both cauterised and control eyes were retrogradely backfilled with Fluoro-Gold. Analysis of RGC loss and morphometric as characterization of surviving RGCs was performed using whole-mounted retinas. Elevation of IOP was apparent after three weeks of episcleral vein cauterisation and it remained elevated for at least 21 weeks (duration of the experiments). Analysis of RGC loss after chronic elevation of IOP revealed that RGC death was significant in the mid-peripheral and peripheral retina, mainly in the temporal quadrants of both retinal regions. Moreover the mean soma area of remaining RGCs was observed to increase and we found a greater loss of large RGCs in the mid-peripheral and peripheral retina. We conclude that the pattern of RGC death induced in the pig retina by episcleral vein cauterisation resembles that found in human glaucoma. On the basis of this study, the pig retina may be considered as a suitable model for glaucoma-related studies, based on its similarity with human and on its affordability.     

Correlation between retinal ganglion cell death and chronically developing inherited glaucoma in a new rat mutant

Glaucoma is a progressive optic neuropathy with characteristic optic disc changes, retinal ganglion cell loss and progressive visual field defects. Elevated intraocular pressure is considered to be a major risk factor in glaucomatous neuropathy. This study aimed to characterize and document a new chronic glaucoma model in the rat with respect to the effect of elevated intraocular pressure on overall retinal dysfunction and retinal ganglion cell loss, and to elucidate the possible mechanisms underlying this cell loss. Intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured in rats using a Tonopen. RGCs were retrogradely labeled with the fluorescent dye, 4-[didecylaminostyryl]-N-methyl-pyridinium-iodide (4-Di-10 ASP) and quantified on retinal flat mounts using fluorescence microscopy. The optic nerve head was examined fundoscopically. Changes in the histological appearance of the whole eyes was studied in paraffin sections, and immunohistochemistry was carried out on cryostat sections. The levels of mRNA for several genes were compared between control and glaucomatous retinae using semi-quantitative RT-PCR. Mutant animals are affected with either a unilateral or bilateral enlargement of the globes having an IOP that ranged from 25 to 45 mmHg, as compared to control values of 12-16 mmHg. The IOP of glaucomatous eyes increased significantly with age to attain a value of 35+/-7.3 at 1.5 years. Concomitant with the rise in IOP, the number of labeled RGCs continued to decrease in number with age. A total of 1887+/-117RGC mm(-2) could be labeled in wild-type control and juvenile mutant pre-glaucomatous retinas, whereas this number dropped to 92+/-26RGC mm(-2) at 1.5 years. Ophthalmoscopy revealed atrophied optic nerve heads in the affected eyes. The pars plicata and the pars plana of the ciliary body of glaucomatous eyes were hypertrophied and elongated, respectively. The anterior chamber was narrow and the irido-corneal angle open in glaucoma eyes. The mRNA of glial-fibrillary-acidic protein, endothelin-1, STAT-3 and STAT-6 increased in the retinas correlating with the severity and duration of the disease. Changes in the expression of GFAP and endothelin-1 could be confirmed using immunohistochemistry. This model may help to address several fundamental issues in the pathogenesis of glaucoma and aid in the development of neuroprotective strategies.     

Dorzolamide and timolol saves retinal ganglion cells in glaucomatous adult rats.

PURPOSE: This study was designed to evaluate the effects of a dorzolamide-timolol combination or dorzolamide on retinal ganglion cell (RGC) density and intraocular pressure (IOP) in glaucomatous eyes of adult rats. METHODS: Glaucoma was induced in the right eye of adult Wistar rats by episcleral venous occlusion. One experimental group was administered dorzolamide 2%-timolol 0.5% combination eye drops, while the other experimental group was administered dorzolamide 2% eye drops. Control groups had surgery without drug administration. Drug application was initiated either 2 weeks before surgery (Group A), from the day of surgery (Group B), 2 weeks after surgery (Group C), or 4 weeks after surgery (Group D). RGCs were labeled by intratectal Fluorogold injections and counted from flat-mount preparations, and IOP was measured using Tonopen. RESULTS: Both dorzolamide-timolol combination and dorzolamide, when applied topically, significantly reduced IOP and improved RGC densities in experimental eyes when compared to control eyes. Earlier initiation, as well as longer duration of drug application, resulted in higher RGC densities. CONCLUSIONS: Topical application of a dorzolamide-timolol combination or dorzolamide saved RGCs to a significant extent and reduced IOP in glaucomatous rat eyes.     

Neuroprotective effect of small interfering RNA targeted to caspase-3 on rat retinal ganglion cell loss induced by ischemia and reperfusion injury

Purpose: To investigate neuroprotective effects of siRNA targeted to caspase-3 against ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) injury in rat eyes. Methods: Retinal ischemia was induced in Wistar rats by increasing the intraocular pressure (IOP) to 110 mmHg for 120 min. To examine the effect of siRNA on rat caspase-3, siRNA was injected into the vitreous cavity 24 h prior to induction of retinal ischemia. Eyes were removed at 2, 7 or 14 days later, and then analyzed for the number of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), the retinal thickness and the amount of apoptosis of the retinal neural cells (as demonstrated by the TUNEL assay). The amount of caspase-3 mRNA was analyzed by rt-PCR. Differences between groups were evaluated by an unpaired t test. Results: The numbers of RGCs in the saline and non-silencing siRNA controls were reduced significantly at 2 and 7 days after the I/R injury. RGCs were significantly retained in eyes pretreated with siRNA targeted to caspase-3 as compared to the control eyes at 2 days after the I/R injury. Inner retinal thickness in the control eyes was significantly thinner as compared to the treated eyes at 2 and 7 days after the I/R injury. After siRNA treatment, the amount of caspase-3 mRNA was significantly lower when compared to the saline control group. Conclusions: The injection of siRNA targeted to caspase-3 into the vitreous cavity of rat eyes may block caspase-3, and may thus be able to prevent retinal cell death associated with ischemic injury. As inhibition of the apoptosis pathway may provide a neuroprotective effect, examination of new strategies for treating these disorders needs to be undertaken.     

Caspase activation and amyloid precursor protein cleavage in rat ocular hypertension

PURPOSE: Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death in glaucoma involves apoptosis. Activation of caspases and abnormal processing of amyloid precursor protein (APP) are important events in other chronic neurodegenerations, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD). The retinal expression and activation of caspases and the patterns of caspase-3-mediated APP processing in ocular hypertensive models of rat glaucoma were investigated. METHODS: RGC death was produced in one eye by chronic exposure to increased intraocular pressure (IOP) or by optic nerve transection. Elevated IOP was produced by obstruction of aqueous humor outflow with laser coagulation or limbal hypertonic saline injection. Caspase activity and APP processing in the retina were examined by RNase protection assay (RPA), immunocytochemistry, immunoblot assay, and colorimetric assay. RESULTS: RPA revealed elevations of caspase-3 mRNA, as well as other apoptosis-related mRNAs. Immunocytochemistry showed caspase-3 activation in RGCs damaged by ocular hypertension. The generation of the caspase-3-mediated APP cleavage product (DeltaC-APP) was also increased in ocular hypertensive RGCs. Western immunoblot assay and colorimetry revealed significantly more activated caspase-3 in ocular hypertensive retinas than in control retinas. The activated form of caspase-8, an initiator caspase, and amyloid-beta, a product of APP proteolysis and a component of senile plaques in AD, were detected in RGCs by immunohistochemistry significantly more often in ocular hypertensive than in control retinas. The amounts of full-length APP were reduced and amyloid-beta-containing fragments were increased in ocular hypertensive retinas by Western immunoblot assay. CONCLUSIONS: Rat RGCs subjected to chronic ocular hypertension demonstrate caspase activation and abnormal processing of APP, which may contribute to the pathophysiology of glaucoma.     

Characterization of retinal damage in the episcleral vein cauterization rat glaucoma model

Episcleral vein cauterization (EVC) is used in rats to generate a glaucoma model with high intraocular pressure (IOP). The long-term retinal damage in this glaucoma model, however, has not been accurately quantified. We report the location and amount of retinal ganglion cell (RGC) damage caused by (EVC) induced IOP elevation in two rat strains. IOP was raised in one eye of Wistar (N = 5) and Brown-Norway(B-N)(N = 7) rats by EVC and monitored monthly until IOP in contralateral eyes equalized at 5 months post-surgery. Animals were maintained for 3.5-4.5 additional months. B-N rats (N = 7) that had no EVC served as controls for this strain. Scotopic flash ERGs were recorded at baseline and just prior to euthanasia. Automated counts of all retrogradely labeled RGCs in retinal flat-mounts were determined and compared between contralateral eyes. RGC density maps were constructed and RGC size distribution was determined. Oscillatory potentials in the group of eyes which had elevated IOP were decreased at the time of euthanasia, when IOP had returned to normal. The group of normal B-N rats had similar RGC counts between contralateral eyes. In the experimental group the mean number of RGCs was not significantly different between control and experimental eyes, but 1 of 5 Wistar and 2 of 7 B-N experimental eyes had at least 30% fewer RGCs than contralateral control eyes. Total retinal area in B-N experimental eyes was higher compared to contralateral eyes. Cumulative IOP exposure of the experimental eyes was modestly correlated with RGC loss while oscillatory potentials appeared to be inversely related to RGC loss. In retinas with extensive (> 30% RGC loss) but not complete damage, smaller cells were preserved better than larger ones. The above results indicate that RGC loss in both Wistar and B-N strains is variable after a prolonged elevation of IOP via EVC. Such variability despite equivalent IOP levels and ERG abnormalities, suggests unknown factors that can protect IOP-stressed RGCs. Identification and enhancement of such factors could prove useful for glaucoma therapy.