Ace Therapeutics assists our clients in investigating glaucoma-related molecular mechanisms and in vitro characterization of anti-glaucoma drugs by developing appropriate in vitro models of glaucoma.
Overview of In Vitro Glaucoma Models
The pathogenesis of glaucoma remains incompletely understood. A widely accepted theory suggests that elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) induces mechanical stress on the optic nerve head, which triggers the programmed cell death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). However, the pathophysiology of glaucoma is highly intricate, involving complex interactions among multiple cell types in the eye, such as RGCs, astrocytes, microglia, and endothelial cells.
Fig 1. Schematic of the human eye. (Safa B N, et al., 2022)
Custom In Vitro Glaucoma Models
Ace Therapeutics is committed to developing and validating a broad range of in vitro models using both primary and immortalized cells derived from humans and animals. These models support basic glaucoma research as well as the development of innovative therapeutics. We offer a wide range of cell-based models and provide customized modeling services tailored to meet specific research needs.
RGCs are central to glaucoma-related vision loss. Our retinal ganglion cell models are ideal for studying the mechanisms of apoptosis and axonal damage. They also serve as reliable platforms for glaucoma drug discovery and efficacy evaluation.
The trabecular meshwork is critical in regulating IOP, a key factor in glaucoma. We offer trabecular meshwork cell models derived from various species, including rat, mouse, and human. Our custom trabecular meshwork cell models provide researchers with valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms regulating IOP, facilitating the identification of potential therapeutic targets.
- Custom Astrocyte Models of Glaucoma
Optic nerve head astrocytes play a significant role in the optic nerve's response to glaucomatous stress. We provide astrocyte models, including optic nerve head astrocytes, to support research on optic nerve protection and the development of neuroprotective strategies.
- Custom Microglia Models of Glaucoma
Microglia are key mediators of inflammation in glaucoma. We provide microglia models from several species, including rat, mouse, and rabbit. We aim to utilize these models to help our clients investigate neuroinflammation mechanisms and support the development of anti-inflammatory drugs for glaucoma.
In addition to the above in vitro models, we also offer customized glaucoma in vitro model development tailored to meet the specific needs of your project.
Applications of In Vitro Glaucoma Models
Our in vitro ocular cell modeling services can be used in a wide range of research areas.
- Cell physiology
- Basic research
- Drug development
- Toxicology study
- Permeability study
Our Advantages in In Vitro Model Development
Our in vitro glaucoma models complement in vivo research by providing valuable mechanistic insights.
- Advanced cell culture technology and equipment
- Controlled cell composition
- Reduced variability
- Low cost
Compared to ex vivo and in vivo models, in vitro cell-based models offer several distinct advantages. They are rapid to construct, relatively inexpensive, and reproducible. Ace Therapeutics' models enable researchers to explore key cellular interactions and identify potential therapeutic targets. Contact us to learn how we can provide comprehensive in vitro model building services for your glaucoma program.
References
- Sahu M K, et al. A review on glaucoma: causes, symptoms, pathogenesis & treatment. J Clin Res Ophthalmol, 2024, 11(1): 001-004.
- Safa B N, et al. Glaucoma and Biomechanics. Curr Opin Ophthalmol, 2022, 33(2): 80-90.