Ace Therapeutics' expertise lies in developing reliable, reproducible animal models to study glaucoma pathophysiology, neuroprotection, and therapeutic interventions. Our custom microbead-induced glaucoma models support researchers in uncovering new insights into retinal ganglion cell (RGC) degeneration and intraocular pressure (IOP) modulation.
Overview of Microbead-Induced Glaucoma Models
Glaucoma, characterized by progressive RGC loss and optic nerve damage, is closely linked to elevated IOP. Anterior chamber microbead injection, which elevates IOP to ocular hypertensive levels, is a widely used method for modeling glaucoma-like insults in animals. In this model, microbeads are distributed throughout the trabecular meshwork (TM) and drainage canals, obstructing aqueous humor outflow and leading to sustained IOP elevation. The microbead-induced model effectively mimics key aspects of human glaucoma, providing a robust platform for studying neurodegeneration, inflammation, and therapeutic efficacy.
Fig. 1 Induction of OHT via paramagnetic bead induction. (Tribble J R, et al., 2021)
Our Microbead-Induced Glaucoma Models
Ace Therapeutics provides a reliable method for constructing microbead-induced glaucoma models that achieve sustained IOP elevation by blocking the TM with injected particles.
Development of Microbead-Induced Glaucoma Models
We offer a diverse range of species, including mice, rats, rabbits, and non-human primates, for tailored glaucoma model development. To meet specific research objectives, we can adjust microbead composition (polystyrene, magnetic, or biodegradable) and injection frequency (single / repeated dosing) to ensure precise control over IOP dynamics.
Our scientists employ sclerocorneal (SC) or clear corneal (CC) injection routes to induce controlled ocular hypertension.
- SC Injection: Achieves sustained IOP elevation (>4 weeks), ideal for chronic glaucoma studies requiring long-term observation.
- CC Injection: Rapidly induces acute IOP spikes, optimized for short-term therapeutic screening.
To ensure data reliability, we use non-invasive tonometry and invasive manometry for accurate pressure monitoring.
Advantages of Microbead-Induced Glaucoma Models
- Controlled IOP elevation
- True internal control
- High reproducibility
- Minimized surgical risks
Structural & Functional Evaluations Comprehensive Evaluations
- IOP monitoring
Non-invasive tonometry & invasive manometry. - Structural analysis
RGC loss quantification, optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging. - Functional assessment
Electroretinography (ERG), visual evoked potentials.
Ace Therapeutics is dedicated to providing reliable solutions for achieving sustained IOP elevation starting at precise time points, enabling our clients to study the mechanisms of glaucoma damage with our custom microbead-induced glaucoma models. Contact us to discuss how our expertise can support your project.
Reference
- Tribble J R, et al. Retinal Ganglion Cell Degeneration in a Rat Magnetic Bead Model of Ocular Hypertensive Glaucoma. Transl Vis Sci Technol, 2021, 10(1): 21.