Performing Injection into Palpebral Portion of the Superior Lacrimal Gland: A Technique for Inducing Dry Eye Disease in Rabbit Model

The superior lacrimal gland is present in the upper lateral region of the eye's orbit. This gland has two parts - the larger upper orbital part is connected to the smaller palpebral part. The lacrimal gland produces the lacrimal fluid - an aqueous protective secretion - which drains from the lacrimal ducts into the eyes to lubricate the ocular surface. The inadequate production of lacrimal fluid leads to an ailment called dry eye disease, or DED.

To induce DED in a rabbit model, place an anesthetized rabbit, with the fur shaved around its pre-orbital and scalp region, laterally on a dissection board. This step allows for better visualization of the eye.

Evert the upper eyelid and apply gentle pressure on the posterior orbital rim. The palpebral gland appears as a bulbous protrusion on the posterior part of the eyelid. Take a syringe fitted with an appropriately sized needle containing the Concanavalin A or Con A. Pierce the conjunctival layer - a thin, mucous membrane covering the eye. Advance the needle transconjunctivally to reach the palpebral gland and inject the Con A solution into it.

Con A, which is an immune system activator, induces an influx of white blood cells into the gland, causing tissue inflammation. This process leads to a reduction in the lacrimal fluid production, eventually inducing DED in the rabbit model.