Translaminar Autonomous System Model for the Modulation of Intraocular and Intracranial Pressure in Human Donor Posterior Segments

Tasneem  P. Sharma; Stacy  M. Curry; Husain Lohawala; Colleen McDowell

doi:10.3791/61006

Translaminar Autonomous System Model for the Modulation of Intraocular and Intracranial Pressure ...

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Neuroscience

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JoVE Journal Neuroscience

Translaminar Autonomous System Model for the Modulation of Intraocular and Intracranial Pressure in Human Donor Posterior Segments

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08:55 min

April 24, 2020

DOI: 10.3791/61006-v

Tasneem P. Sharma¹, Stacy M. Curry¹, Husain Lohawala², Colleen McDowell³

¹North Texas Eye Research Institute, Department of Pharmacology and Neuroscience,University of North Texas Health Science Center, ²Mechanical Engineer Consultant, ³Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine and Public Health,University of Wisconsin

Overview

This study presents a novel ocular translaminar autonomous system (TAS) designed to regulate intraocular and intracranial pressures independently. By creating a translaminar pressure gradient, the system aims to mimic glaucomatous optic neuropathy for research on ocular diseases and conditions affecting intracranial pressure.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

Neuroscience
Ophthalmology
Neurobiology

Background

Research on pressure gradients related to optic nerve health.
Importance of studying intracranial pressure in ocular diseases.
Exploration of conditions such as glaucoma and traumatic brain injury.

Purpose of Study

To develop a system for studying pressure differences in the eye and brain.
To provide a model for investigating diseases tied to pressure changes.
To enhance understanding of potential interactions between ocular and intracranial pressures.

Methods Used

Utilization of a translaminar autonomous system (TAS) for pressure regulation.
Preparation of human eye samples to create a controlled experimental setup.
Monitoring and calibrating pressure sensors to gather data on IOP and ICP.
Inflow and outflow syringes were used for medium exchange and pressure management.

Main Results

Successful establishment of average normal pressure differentials in the TAS model.
Minimal pressure disturbances during fluid exchange, maintaining tissue viability.
Observations included steady-state behavior of optic nerve head morphology across experimental timelines.

Conclusions

The study demonstrates the feasibility of using the TAS model for ocular pressure research.
It highlights potential applications for understanding glaucoma and related conditions.
Implications for future studies on pressure interactions and their effects on optic nerve health are significant.

Frequently Asked Questions

What advantages does the TAS model offer?

The TAS model allows for independent regulation of intraocular and intracranial pressures, which can lead to better insights into disease mechanisms.

How is the biological model implemented?

A human eye globe sample is prepared by removing the optic nerve sheath and vitreous humor, allowing for precise pressure control.

What types of data are obtained from the TAS system?

Data on intraocular and intracranial pressures as well as tissue viability and morphology observations can be collected in real-time.

How can this method be applied in future research?

It can be used to evaluate various ocular diseases and conditions tied to pressure anomalies, enhancing our understanding of their mechanisms.

Are there any key limitations to the TAS model?

One limitation could be the need for precise calibration and maintenance of pressure conditions to ensure accurate results.

What conditions could be studied using this model?

Conditions like glaucoma, traumatic brain injury, and idiopathic intracranial hypertension can be investigated using the TAS model.

How does the platform ensure tissue viability?

The medium in the tissue is exchanged every 48 hours with careful monitoring to minimize pressure increases, preserving morphology and function.

We describe and detail the use of the translaminar autonomous system. This system utilizes the human posterior segment to independently regulate the pressure inside the segment (intraocular) and surrounding the optic nerve (intracranial) to generate a translaminar pressure gradient that mimics features of glaucomatous optic neuropathy.

This novel ocular translaminar autonomous system uses the human posterior segment to independently regulate intraocular and intracranial pressures to generate a translaminar pressure gradient. The TAS model allows the evaluation of human intracranial pressure in an ex vivo, preclinical manner that previously could not be studied. This model could potentially be used to study diseases such as glaucoma, traumatic brain injury, idiopathic intracranial hypertension, and spaceflight-associated neuro-ocular syndrome.

To set up the inflow syringes, load 30-milliliter syringe with 30 milliliters of the perfusion fluid of interest and attach a three-way stop cock to the syringe. Attach a 0.22-micrometer hydrophilic filter to the stop cock, and attach a 15-gauge luer stub adapter to the 0.22-micrometer hydrophilic filter. After removing air bubbles from the syringe setup, attach tubing to the luer stub adapter and close the side port of the stop cock with an unvented universal lock cap.

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