Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose:To create a model of RPE debridement in the rat by either intravenous or subretinal injection of sodium iodate (Na Iodate). Methods:A total of 36 eyes from 18 Lewis rats were studied. Groups 1&2 received 120 mg/kg of Na Iodate via the tail vein (iv); groups 3 & 4 received 150-200µg /rat of Na Iodate via the subretinal space (srs) in 5-7 µl. Control groups received a similar volume of normal saline. Eyes were enucleated at 24 hrs and 1 week after injection. Light microscopy, transmission electronic microscopy (TEM), and scanning electronic microscopy (SEM) were performed. Results:At 24 hours the eyes of both iv and srs Na Iodate-injected recipients showed plump, densely pigmented and depigmented RPE cells, with patchy areas of RPE loss. At 1 week large areas of RPE loss with bare Bruch's membrane were observed in both groups injected with Na Iodate. Abnormalities were noted in both the overlying photoreceptors and underlying choroids. Similar changes were not observed with normal saline. Conclusion:At 1 week after injection of Na Iodate a model of RPE debridement of Bruch's membrane in the rat is created after either iv or srs injection. This animal model will allow the study of RPE transplantation on a bare Bruch's membrane.
Keywords: 567 retinal pigment epithelium • 316 animal model • 607 transplantation