Scientific Reports · 6 authors, 2 centres
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This study demonstrated a 100% success rate in inducing choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in six pigmented rabbits using laser photocoagulation. The CNV lesions were stably monitored for 4 months using multimodal imaging, including photoacoustic microscopy and optical coherence tomography, providing a clinically relevant animal model for future research.
This preclinical study investigated a laser photocoagulation protocol to induce choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in six Dutch Belted pigmented rabbits. Twelve laser lesions were created per eye. CNV development was monitored longitudinally for four months using multimodal imaging: color fundus photography, fluorescein angiography, photoacoustic microscopy (PAM), and optical coherence tomography (OCT). A 100% success rate in CNV induction was achieved. PAM, enhanced with indocyanine green, allowed visualization of CNV distinct from surrounding tissues, with signal increasing up to 59 times at 700 nm. OCT and PAM provided 3D renders of CNV morphology. Immunohistochemistry confirmed CNV development. The study established that this laser-induced CNV model produces stable lesions for up to 4 months, offering a longer follow-up than many prior models. A key limitation noted is that photoacoustic imaging began at day 30, so early CNV progression was not fully captured with this modality. The model is presented as a valuable tool for longitudinal studies of CNV pathogenesis and potential treatments relevant to wet age-related macular degeneration.
