SEARCHNARRATIVE_REVIEWophthalmology, cornea

narrative_review·ophthalmology, cornea, preclinical research, biomedical research·PMC10705680

Animal Models for the Study of Keratoconus

Cells · 3 authors, 4 centres

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TL;DR

This narrative review summarizes and categorizes existing animal models (genetic, spontaneous, treatment-induced) for studying keratoconus. The central finding is that no single model currently replicates both the human corneal phenotype and underlying pathophysiology, highlighting a need for more comprehensive validation.

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This narrative review examines animal models used to study keratoconus (KC), categorizing them as genetic, spontaneous, treatment-induced, or proposed. The authors note that genetic and spontaneous models are limited to mice, while rats and rabbits are primarily used in treatment-induced models employing ultraviolet radiation or collagenase. The review identifies that all current models have drawbacks preventing full validation, often due to incomplete assessment of KC variables. A key limitation is the use of hand-held pachymetry, which measures thickness at only one point, whereas optical coherence tomography (OCT) is preferred for assessing localized thinning. The review concludes that while treated models show promise, there is untapped potential in genetic and spontaneous mouse lines. Establishing a validated in vivo model is critical for understanding KC mechanisms and developing treatments.

STUDY TYPE

narrative_review

SPECIALTY

ophthalmology

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ORIGINAL PAPER

PMC10705680

Animal Models for the Study of Keratoconus

Cells

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ABSTRACT

Keratoconus (KC) is characterized by localized, central thinning and cone-like protrusion of the cornea. Its precise etiology remains undetermined, although both genetic and environmental factors are known to contribute to disease susceptibility. Due to KC’s complex nature, there is currently no ideal animal model to represent both the corneal phenotype and underlying pathophysiology. Attempts to establish a KC model have involved mice, rats, and rabbits, with some additional novel animals suggested. Genetic animal models have only been attempted in mice. Similarly, spontaneously occurring animal models for KC have only been discovered in mice. Models generated using chemical or environmental treatments have been attempted in mice, rats, and rabbits. Among several methods used to induce KC in animals, ultraviolet radiation exposure and treatment with collagenase are some of the most prevalent. There is a clear need for an experimental model animal to elucidate the underlying mechanisms behind the development and progression of keratoconus. An appropriate animal model could also aid in the development of treatments to slow or arrest the disorder.

CITATION EXPORT

Rachel Hadvina, Amy Estes, Yutao Liu. Animal Models for the Study of Keratoconus. Cells. (2023). https://doi.org/10.3390/cells12232681

AUTHORS

3 · 4 CENTRES

Rachel Hadvina, Amy Estes, Yutao Liu

1Department of Cellular Biology & Anatomy, Augusta University, 1120 15th Street, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
2Center for Biotechnology and Genomic Medicine, Augusta University, 1120 15th Street, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
3James & Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, 1120 15th Street, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
4Department of Ophthalmology, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA

EDITOR / REVIEWER

W. Matthew Petroll, Danielle M. Robertson