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Song J, Hu Y, Chen A, Yoo HS, Zawadzki RJ, Matsubara JA, Ju MJ. In vivo multi-contrast depth-resolved choroidal imaging of a mouse using polarization-diversity optical coherence tomography. OPTICS LETTERS 2024; 49:4314-4317. [PMID: 39090922 DOI: 10.1364/ol.529146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
The results of depth-resolved multi-contrast in vivo mouse choroidal imaging using a polarization-diversity optical coherence tomography (PD-OCT) system are presented. A selectively chosen depth of focus that was fine-tuned with a sensorless adaptive optics technique and a simple segmentation based on the degree of polarization uniformity signal visualizes the detailed features of a mouse choroid from the OCT angiography images. A comprehensive image analysis of the choroid revealed the distinctive pathological characteristics of the laser-induced choroidal neovascularization mouse.
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Jiang Z, Chernoff D, Galenchik-Chan A, Tomorri D, Honkanen RA, Duong TQ, Muir ER. Improved MRI methods to quantify retinal and choroidal blood flow applied to a model of glaucoma. FRONTIERS IN OPHTHALMOLOGY 2024; 4:1385495. [PMID: 38984144 PMCID: PMC11182105 DOI: 10.3389/fopht.2024.1385495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Purpose Blood flow (BF) of the retinal and choroidal vasculatures can be quantitatively imaged using MRI. This study sought to improve methods of data acquisition and analysis for MRI of layer-specific retinal and choroidal BF and then applied this approach to detect reduced ocular BF in a well-established mouse model of glaucoma from both eyes. Methods Quantitative BF magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed on glaucomatous DBA/2J and normal C57BL/6J mice. Arterial spin labeling MRI was applied to image retinal and choroidal BF using custom-made dual eye coils that could image both eyes during the same scan. Statistics using data from a single eye or two eyes were compared. BF values were calculated using two approaches. The BF rate per quantity of tissue was calculated as commonly done, and the peak BF values of the retinal and choroidal vasculatures were taken. Additionally, the BF rate per retinal surface area was calculated using a new analysis approach to attempt to reduce partial volume and variability by integrating BF over the retinal and choroidal depths. Results Ocular BF of both eyes could be imaged using the dual coil setup without effecting scan time. Intraocular pressure was significantly elevated in DBA/2J mice compared to C57BL/6J mice (P<0.01). Both retinal and choroidal BF were significantly decreased in DBA/2J mice in comparison to the age-matched normal C57BL/6J mice across all measurements (P < 0.01). From simulations, the values from the integrated BF analysis method had less partial volume effect, and from in vivo scans, this analysis approach also improved power. Conclusion The dual eye coil setup allows bilateral eye data acquisition, increasing the amount of data acquired without increasing acquisition times in vivo. The reduced ocular BF found using the improved acquisition and analysis approaches replicated the results of previous studies on DBA/2J mice. The ocular hypertensive stress-induced BF reduction found within these mice may represent changes associated with glaucomatous progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao Jiang
- Department of Radiology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Diane Chernoff
- Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Andre Galenchik-Chan
- Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - David Tomorri
- School of Health Professions, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Robert A. Honkanen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, United States
| | - Timothy Q. Duong
- Department of Radiology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, United States
| | - Eric R. Muir
- Department of Radiology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States
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Wu X, Yang X, Dai X, Chen X, Shen M, Dai J, Yuan F, Wang L, Yuan Y, Feng Y. 5-Aza-2'-Deoxycytidine Ameliorates Choroidal Neovascularization by Inhibiting the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2024; 65:23. [PMID: 38345554 PMCID: PMC10866157 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.65.2.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) can constitute the final pathology of many ocular diseases and result in severe vision loss. Studies have demonstrated that DNA methylation is critical in retinal development, aging, and disorders. The current work investigated the effects and underlying mechanism of 5-Aza-2'-deoxycytidine (5-aza-dC), a suppressor of DNA methylation, in the pathological progression of CNV. Methods The DNA methylation profiles of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE)/choroidal complexes in normal and laser-induced CNV mice were assessed by Arraystar Mouse RefSeq Promoter Arrays. The CNV area and blood flow density and intensity were observed by optical coherence tomography angiography, and fluorescence leakage was examined by fundus fluorescein angiography in CNV mice with systemic administration of 5-aza-dC. The effects of 5-aza-dC on the biological functions of bEnd.3 cells were estimated by related assays. Notum gene promoter methylation was measured using bisulfite sequencing PCR. Methyltransferases and Wnt signaling-related genes were detected in animal and cell culture experiments by real-time PCR and immunoblot. Results Methyltransferases were upregulated, but Notum (a secretion inhibitor of Wnt signaling) was downregulated in the RPE/choroidal complexes of mice with experimental CNV. Intraperitoneal injection of 5-aza-dC inactivated the Wnt pathway and ameliorated the lesion area and the intensity and density of blood flow, as well as the degree of leakage in CNV. In vitro, vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) stimulation promoted methyltransferases expression and suppressed Notum expression, consequently activating Wnt signaling, whereas exogenous 5-aza-dC reversed VEGFA-induced hyperpermeability, proliferation, migration, and tube formation in bEnd.3 cells via demethylation of Notum promoter. Conclusions We observed that 5-aza-dC attenuates the growth of CNV by inhibiting the Wnt signaling pathway via promoter demethylation of the Wnt antagonist Notum. These findings provide a theoretical basis for methylation-based treatment with the Notum gene as a potential target for CNV treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyuan Wu
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xi Yang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaochan Dai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiuping Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Minqian Shen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jinhui Dai
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fei Yuan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liyang Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Geriatric Medical Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanzhi Yuan
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital (Xiamen), Fudan University, Xiamen, China
| | - Yifan Feng
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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HTRA1 Regulates Subclinical Inflammation and Activates Proangiogenic Response in the Retina and Choroid. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231810206. [PMID: 36142120 PMCID: PMC9499640 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
High-temperature requirement A1 (HtrA1) has been identified as a disease-susceptibility gene for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) including polypoidal choroidal neovasculopathy (PCV). We characterized the underlying phenotypic changes of transgenic (Tg) mice expressing ubiquitous CAG promoter (CAG-HtrA1 Tg). In vivo imaging modalities and histopathology were performed to investigate the possible neovascularization, drusen formation, and infiltration of macrophages. Subretinal white material deposition and scattered white-yellowish retinal foci were detected on CFP [(Tg—33% (20/60) and wild-type (WT)—7% (1/15), p < 0.05]. In 40% (4/10) of the CAG-HtrA1 Tg retina, ICGA showed punctate hyperfluorescent spots. There was no leakage on FFA and OCTA failed to confirm vascular flow signals from the subretinal materials. Increased macrophages and RPE cell migrations were noted from histopathological sections. Monocyte subpopulations were increased in peripheral blood in the CAG-HtrA1 Tg mice (p < 0.05). Laser induced CNV in the CAG-HtrA1 Tg mice and showed increased leakage from CNV compared to WT mice (p < 0.05). Finally, choroidal explants of the old CAG-HtrA1 Tg mice demonstrated an increased area of sprouting (p < 0.05). Signs of subclinical inflammation was observed in CAG-HtrA1 Tg mice. Such subclinical inflammation may have resulted in increased RPE cell activation and angiogenic potential.
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Guo L, Tao J, Tong Y, Chen S, Zhao X, Hua R. Morphological and vascular characteristics of the optic nerve head of normal guinea pigs. Sci Rep 2022; 12:873. [PMID: 35042920 PMCID: PMC8766596 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-04911-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The morphological and vascular characteristics of the optic nerve head (ONH) of normal guinea pigs have not been fully recognized. Therefore, we aimed to investigate them using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). We measured the refractive error, axial length, and intraocular pressure (IOP) and performed OCT and OCTA of the ONH of 3- and 4-week-old tricolour guinea pigs. A total of 208 right eyes from 208 normal guinea pigs were examined. The refractive error (both myopic and hyperopic) of the 3-week group was significantly higher than that of the 4-week group (p < 0.001), the IOP of the 3-week group was significantly lower than that of the 4-week group (p = 0.014), and the circumpapillary retinal nerve fibre layer (cpRNFL) of the 3-week group was significantly thicker than that of the 4-week group (p = 0.048). There were no significant differences in the average vessel area, vascular density, total number of junctions, total vessel length, total number of endpoints, and vascular diameter between the two groups. However, an age-adjusted linear regression analysis revealed that the total vessel length was positively associated with the cpRNFL thickness (p = 0.024) and negatively associated with IOP (p = 0.016). This is the first report on morphological and vascular characteristics of the ONH in normal guinea pigs based on in vivo OCT and OCTA imaging and quantification of ONH parameters. These results may contribute to further research on myopia using guinea pig models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Guo
- Ophthalmology and Optometry Centre, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shenyang Xingqi Eye Hospital, Shenyang, China
| | - Jun Tao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The 4th People's Hospital of Shenyang, Shenyang, China
| | - Yang Tong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shenyang Xingqi Eye Hospital, Shenyang, China
| | - Shichao Chen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shenyang Xingqi Eye Hospital, Shenyang, China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Ophthalmology, Shenyang Xingqi Eye Hospital, Shenyang, China
| | - Rui Hua
- Department of Ophthalmology, The First Hospital of China Medical University, No. 155, Nanjingbei Street, Heping District, Shenyang, 110001, Liaoning Province, China.
- Macular Disease Research Laboratory, Department of Ophthalmology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
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The Communication between Ocular Surface and Nasal Epithelia in 3D Cell Culture Technology for Translational Research: A Narrative Review. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222312994. [PMID: 34884799 PMCID: PMC8657734 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a lack of knowledge regarding the connection between the ocular and nasal epithelia. This narrative review focuses on conjunctival, corneal, ultrastructural corneal stroma, and nasal epithelia as well as an introduction into their interconnections. We describe in detail the morphology and physiology of the ocular surface, the nasolacrimal ducts, and the nasal cavity. This knowledge provides a basis for functional studies and the development of relevant cell culture models that can be used to investigate the pathogenesis of diseases related to these complex structures. Moreover, we also provide a state-of-the-art overview regarding the development of 3D culture models, which allow for addressing research questions in models resembling the in vivo situation. In particular, we give an overview of the current developments of corneal 3D and organoid models, as well as 3D cell culture models of epithelia with goblet cells (conjunctiva and nasal cavity). The benefits and shortcomings of these cell culture models are discussed. As examples for pathogens related to ocular and nasal epithelia, we discuss infections caused by adenovirus and measles virus. In addition to pathogens, also external triggers such as allergens can cause rhinoconjunctivitis. These diseases exemplify the interconnections between the ocular surface and nasal epithelia in a molecular and clinical context. With a final translational section on optical coherence tomography (OCT), we provide an overview about the applicability of this technique in basic research and clinical ophthalmology. The techniques presented herein will be instrumental in further elucidating the functional interrelations and crosstalk between ocular and nasal epithelia.
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Van Phuc N, Folz J, Li Y, Henry J, Zhang W, Qian T, Wang X, Paulus YM. Indocyanine green-enhanced multimodal photoacoustic microscopy and optical coherence tomography molecular imaging of choroidal neovascularization. JOURNAL OF BIOPHOTONICS 2021; 14:e202000458. [PMID: 33502124 PMCID: PMC8262643 DOI: 10.1002/jbio.202000458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2021] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) has great potential for visualization of the microvasculature with high spatial resolution and contrast. Early detection and differentiation of newly developed blood vessels named choroidal neovascularization (CNV) from normal vasculature remains a challenge in ophthalmology. Exogenous contrast agents can assist with improving PAM sensitivity, leading to differentiation of CNV. Here, an FDA-approved indocyanine green (ICG) was utilized as a PAM contrast agent. ICG was conjugated with RGD peptides, allowing the ICG to bind to the integrin expressed in CNV. Molecular PAM imaging showed that ICG-RGD can target CNV for up to 5 days post intravenous administration in living rabbits with a model of CNV. The PAM image sensitivity and image contrast were significantly enhanced by 15-fold at 24 h post-injection. Overall, the presented approach demonstrates the possibility of targeted ICG to be employed in PAM molecular imaging, allowing more precise evaluation of neovascularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Van Phuc
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
- NTT-Hi Tech Institute, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
| | - Jeff Folz
- Biophysics Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Yanxiu Li
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Jessica Henry
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Thomas Qian
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Xueding Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Yannis M. Paulus
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
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Chen TH, Wu YC, Tsai TY, Chueh CB, Huang BH, Huang YP, Tsai MT, Yasuno Y, Lee HC. Effect of A-scan rate and interscan interval on optical coherence angiography. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2021; 12:722-736. [PMID: 33680538 PMCID: PMC7901325 DOI: 10.1364/boe.409636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) can provide rapid, volumetric, and noninvasive imaging of tissue microvasculature without the requirement of exogenous contrast agents. To investigate how A-scan rate and interscan time affected the contrast and dynamic range of OCTA, we developed a 1.06-µm swept-source OCT system enabling 100-kHz or 200-kHz OCT using two light sources. After system settings were carefully adjusted, almost the same detection sensitivity was achieved between the 100-kHz and 200-kHz modalities. OCTA of ear skin was performed on five mice. We used the variable interscan time analysis algorithm (VISTA) and the designated scanning protocol with OCTA images reconstructed through the correlation mapping method. With a relatively long interscan time (e.g., 12.5 ms vs. 6.25 ms for 200-kHz OCT), OCTA can identify more intricate microvascular networks. OCTA image sets with the same interscan time (e.g., 12.5 ms) were compared. OCTA images acquired with a 100-kHz A-scan rate showed finer microvasculature than did other imaging modalities. We performed quantitative analysis on the contrast from OCTA images reconstructed with different A-scan rates and interscan time intervals in terms of vessel area, total vessel length, and junction density.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting-Hao Chen
- Graduate Institute of Photonics and Optoelectronics, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chun Wu
- Graduate Institute of Photonics and Optoelectronics, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Ting-Yen Tsai
- Graduate Institute of Photonics and Optoelectronics, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Chuan-Bor Chueh
- Graduate Institute of Photonics and Optoelectronics, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Bo-Huei Huang
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Yin-Peng Huang
- Graduate Institute of Networking and Multimedia, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Tsan Tsai
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Linkou, Taoyuan 33306, Taiwan
| | - Yoshiaki Yasuno
- Computational Optics Group, University of Tsukuba, Tennodai 1-1-1, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8573, Japan
| | - Hsiang-Chieh Lee
- Graduate Institute of Photonics and Optoelectronics, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
- Department of Electrical Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
- Molecular Imaging Center, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan
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Kim TH, Le D, Son T, Yao X. Vascular morphology and blood flow signatures for differential artery-vein analysis in optical coherence tomography of the retina. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2021; 12:367-379. [PMID: 33520388 PMCID: PMC7818960 DOI: 10.1364/boe.413149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Differential artery-vein (AV) analysis is essential for retinal study, disease detection, and treatment assessment. This study is to characterize vascular reflectance profiles and blood flow patterns of retinal artery and vein systems in optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT angiography (OCTA), and establish them as robust signatures for objective AV classification. A custom designed OCT was employed for three-dimensional (3D) imaging of mouse retina, and corresponding OCTA was reconstructed. Radially resliced OCT B-scans revealed two, i.e. top and bottom, hyperreflective wall boundaries in retinal arteries, while these wall boundaries were absent in OCT of retinal veins. Additional OCTA analysis consistently displayed a layered speckle distribution in the vein, which may indicate the venous laminar flow. These OCT and OCTA differences offer unique signatures for objective AV classification in OCT and OCTA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae-Hoon Kim
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
| | - David Le
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
| | - Taeyoon Son
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
| | - Xincheng Yao
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA
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Sher I, Moverman D, Ketter-Katz H, Moisseiev E, Rotenstreich Y. In vivo retinal imaging in translational regenerative research. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2020; 8:1096. [PMID: 33145315 PMCID: PMC7575995 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-4355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Regenerative translational studies must include a longitudinal assessment of the changes in retinal structure and function that occur as part of the natural history of the disease and those that result from the studied intervention. Traditionally, retinal structural changes have been evaluated by histological analysis which necessitates sacrificing the animals. In this review, we describe key imaging approaches such as fundus imaging, optical coherence tomography (OCT), OCT-angiography, adaptive optics (AO), and confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (cSLO) that enable noninvasive, non-contact, and fast in vivo imaging of the posterior segment. These imaging technologies substantially reduce the number of animals needed and enable progression analysis and longitudinal follow-up in individual animals for accurate assessment of disease natural history, effects of interventions and acute changes. We also describe the benefits and limitations of each technology, as well as outline possible future directions that can be taken in translational retinal imaging studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ifat Sher
- Goldschleger Eye Institute, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Daniel Moverman
- Goldschleger Eye Institute, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
| | - Hadas Ketter-Katz
- Goldschleger Eye Institute, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Elad Moisseiev
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Department of Ophthalmology, Meir Medical Center, Kfar Saba, Israel
| | - Ygal Rotenstreich
- Goldschleger Eye Institute, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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11
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Meyer JH, Marx J, Strack C, Holz FG, Schmitz-Valckenberg S. Imaging of Therapeutic Effects of Anti-Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Inhibitors by Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in a Rat Model. Transl Vis Sci Technol 2020; 9:29. [PMID: 32832234 PMCID: PMC7414645 DOI: 10.1167/tvst.9.7.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The aim of the study was to investigate optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) as a high-resolution in vivo imaging modality for monitoring therapeutic response to different vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors in the rat model of laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV). Further, OCTA findings were compared with fluorescein angiography (FA) and fluorescence microscopy. Methods Laser treatment at day (D)0 was followed by intravitreal injection of aflibercept, AF564, and NaCl in dark agouti rats. Imaging with OCTA and FA was performed at D2, D7, D14, and D21. OCTA was compared to FA as well as confocal imaged flat mounts and analysis included quantification of CNV area, pixel intensity, vessel density, and number of vessel junctions. Results Within laser lesions, neovascularization were visible especially in deeper retinal layers on OCTA, but not on FA images. Using OCTA, mean CNV area (D21) at the level of the outer nuclear layer (ONL) was 0.017 mm² following aflibercept administration, 0.016 mm² following AF564 and 0.026 mm² following NaCl injection (P = 0.04 and P = 0.03). Similar differences between treatment groups were determined by FA and histology, although the overall CNV area was always larger on FA due to dye leakage (P ≤ 0.0001, all layers). Conclusions Compared to FA, OCTA imaging allows for a more precise and quantitative analysis of new blood vessel formation and therapeutic response to vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-inhibitors, whereas it does not permit assessment of leakage. Translational Relevance These findings suggest that OCTA may be particularly useful for the investigation of new treatment targets in the animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna H Meyer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Janine Marx
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Claudine Strack
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Steffen Schmitz-Valckenberg
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Inhibition of Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1α and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor by Chrysin in a Rat Model of Choroidal Neovascularization. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21082842. [PMID: 32325771 PMCID: PMC7215732 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21082842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of irreversible vision loss among the elderly population. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is essential for choroidal neovascularization (CNV) development in advanced, wet AMD. Chrysin (5,7-dihydroxyflavone) is a natural flavonoid with anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and anti-angiogenic effects. We hypothesized that intravitreally injected chrysin may inhibit CNV due to its inhibitory effect on angiogenesis. To determine the effects of chrysin on an experimental CNV model, we induced CNV in Brown Norway rats with a diode laser. One week later, rats were injected intravitreally with chrysin in the right eye and vehicle in the left eye. The following week, we evaluated chrysin’s effects via the CNV grade assessed with fluorescein angiography and histologic analyses. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α) and VEGF expression in the retina/choroid complex were also measured in both eyes. The mean CNV grade was significantly lower in chrysin-treated vs. control eyes (2.34 ± 1.14 vs. 2.97 ± 1.05, p < 0.001), as was the mean CNV thickness (33.90 ± 4.89 vs. 38.50 ± 5.43 μm, p < 0.001) and mean HIF-1α and VEGF levels (both p < 0.001). Compared to chrysin-treated eyes, the relative risk of control eyes developing high-leakage lesions was 2.03 (95% confidence interval: 1.46–2.83). Since chrysin inhibited laser-induced CNV and downregulated HIF-1α and VEGF expression, it is a candidate for treating wet AMD and other CNV-associated conditions.
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von der Emde L, Thiele S, Pfau M, Nadal J, Meyer J, Möller PT, Schmid M, Fleckenstein M, Holz FG, Schmitz-Valckenberg S. Assessment of Exudative Activity of Choroidal Neovascularization in Age-Related Macular Degeneration by OCT Angiography. Ophthalmologica 2019; 243:120-128. [PMID: 31665719 DOI: 10.1159/000503609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Based on exudative activity, choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can be classified as "active" aCNV, pretherapied "silent" sCNV (i.e., a treatment-free interval >12 weeks), or treatment-naïve "quiescent" qCNV. We evaluated the qualitative and quantitative optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) features of these CNV subgroups. METHODS The presence of small-caliber vessels, peripheral arcades, and a -perilesional OCTA signal attenuation as well as values for vessel length, density, and branching index were evaluated for each CNV network in a 6 × 6 mm OCTA scan pattern. RESULTS Fifty-one eyes of 51 patients with AMD (age 75.9 ± 7.5 years; 20 males [39.2%]) were included. The qCNV subgroup (n = 8) showed the highest prevalence of qualitative and quantitative values for OCTA activity criteria, reaching significance with regard to small-caliber vessels (p = 0.003), peripheral arcades (p = 0.039), vessel length (p = 0.020), and branching index (p < 0.001) when compared to the aCNV (n = 32) and sCNV (n = 11) subgroups. Qualitative criteria were inversely associated with the number of previous anti-VEGF injections (each p < 0.03), while quantitative metrics also suggested lower values. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that OCTA may be supportive in the phenotypical differentiation of CNV lesions secondary to AMD, while the assessed structural changes appeared to be more indicative of previously administered anti-VEGF therapy than current exudative activity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah Thiele
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,GRADE Reading Center, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Maximilian Pfau
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,GRADE Reading Center, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jennifer Nadal
- Institute for Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Johanna Meyer
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Philipp T Möller
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,GRADE Reading Center, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Matthias Schmid
- Institute for Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Monika Fleckenstein
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,GRADE Reading Center, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Frank G Holz
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.,GRADE Reading Center, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Steffen Schmitz-Valckenberg
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany, .,GRADE Reading Center, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany, .,John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA,
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