Customized Rodent Models of Myopia

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Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a prevalent vision impairment characterized by clear vision at near distances but blurred vision at far distances. At Ace Therapeutics, we specialize in developing customized rodent models of myopia, providing researchers with the essential tools to study the underlying mechanisms of myopia.

Overview of Acute and Chronic Myopia Models

Animal models provide valuable tools for investigating the complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors contributing to myopia development. These models can be classified into acute and chronic myopia models.

Acute models, often induced by pharmacological agents like tunicamycin, provide a rapid onset of myopia. Tunicamycin disrupts scleral collagen fibrillogenesis by inducing endoplasmic reticulum stress, leading to measurable changes in refractive error and axial length within a short time.
Chronic models mimic the gradual progression of myopia observed in humans. Form-deprivation myopia (FDM), induced by limiting visual input to one or both eyes, and lens-induced myopia (LIM), induced by wearing negative lenses, are common methods for establishing chronic myopia in rodents.

Fig 1. Common experimental animal models of myopia and induction methods. Fig. 1. The common experimental myopic animal models and induction approaches. (Zheng L, et al., 2024)

Explore Ace Therapeutics' Rodent Models of Myopia

Ace Therapeutics specializes in developing customized rodent models of myopia to meet the specific needs of preclinical research. Our expertise encompasses a wide array of services, from model design and implementation to comprehensive data analysis and reporting. We specialize in establishing both acute and chronic myopia models in mice and guinea pigs.

Acute Myopia Models
Animal Species: We specialize in establishing acute myopia models in mice and guinea pigs.
Induction Methods: Our acute models utilize precise dosages of tunicamycin, a potent inducer of endoplasmic reticulum stress in the sclera, allowing for rapid induction of myopia and investigation of early-stage molecular mechanisms.
Model Validation: We meticulously validate these models through rigorous assessment of refractive error using streak retinoscopy, and precise measurement of axial length using high-resolution ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM). Furthermore, we investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying tunicamycin-induced myopia by analyzing gene expression changes and protein levels of key factors involved in scleral remodeling.
Chronic Myopia Models
Animal Species: We induce FDM and LIM models in guinea pigs, a species particularly well-suited for these models due to their docile nature and large eye size, facilitating precise measurements.
Induction Methods: Our FDM models utilize custom-designed eye covers to precisely control the degree of visual deprivation, while our LIM models employ carefully selected negative lenses to induce controlled defocus.
Model Validation: These models are rigorously monitored over extended periods, with regular measurements of refractive error, axial length, and choroidal thickness using OCT. We also employ electroretinography (ERG) to assess retinal function and optomotor responses to evaluate visual acuity and contrast sensitivity, providing a comprehensive understanding of the functional consequences of chronic myopia.

Our Advantages in Myopia Model Development

Model Design and Implementation: Tailored model selection and experimental design based on individual research objectives.
Preclinical Ophthalmological Assessments: Comprehensive measurements of refractive error, axial length, choroidal thickness, retinal function, and visual acuity.
Histological Analysis: Detailed examination of ocular tissues to assess structural changes associated with myopia.
Molecular Biology Services: Gene expression analysis and protein quantification to investigate the underlying molecular mechanisms.

Ace Therapeutics is dedicated to providing specialized services and expertise to support researchers and pharmaceutical companies in investigating the mechanisms and potential treatments for myopia. For more information about our customized rodent models and how we can assist you in your myopia research, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Reference

Zheng L, et al. Animal modeling for myopia. Adv Ophthalmol Pract Res. 2024 Jun 5;4(4):173-181.

For Research Use Only.