Abstract
Purpose: :
To determine whether mouse with a targeted disruption of cochlin gene in DBA/2J background leads to delayed neurodegeneration.
Methods: :
C57Bl/6 mice with targeted disruption (generated using W9.5 ES cells) of cochlin gene (Cochlin KO) were bred onto DBA/2J mice background for 8 generations. DBA/2J cochlin KO mice (n =40) were subjected to PCR, Western analysis and Immunohistochemical analysis. Mice were also subjected to IOP measurement using Tonolab and cannulation method. Fixed enucleated mouse eyes were subjected to sectioning and axon counting. All studies were performed confirming adherence to the ARVO Statement for the Use of Animals in Ophthalmic and Vision Research.
Results: :
The DBA/2J cochlin KO mice (8th generation; n=40) shows lower elevation in IOP and delayed optic nerve damage as determined by optic nerve staining axon counting.
Conclusions: :
The DBA/2J cochlin KO mice currently at 8th generation shows relatively lower elevation in IOP compared to controls and relatively delayed optic nerve damage. However, in the current KO mice, DBA/2J background may not be homogenous and breeding and experiments are under progress to further validate these finding.
Keywords: transgenics/knock-outs • gene/expression • intraocular pressure