A Mouse Model for Corneal Neovascularization by Alkali Burn

We are trying to develop a highly reproducible model for inducing corneal neovascularization, and to identify the most relevant histological and immunostaining methods to monitor therapies to prevent and reduce neovascularization. The drawbacks of corneal alkali burn models are difficulties in controlling the area and severity of alkali burn, variation of corneal neovascularization, and unintentional burn of edges and tissues due to excess alkali solution. Corneal neovascularization is a site threatening condition.

The pathogenesis of this condition is poorly understood. This model will be used to gain new insight into the condition, and to identify relevant therapeutic targets Compared to the corneal pocket angiogenesis model, alkali burn models are relatively straightforward to create, and can also be used to study corneal inflammation, fibrosis, and epithelial proliferation. These models are also more closely related to clinical chemical burns than corneal suture models of angiogenesis.

We will use alkali burn cornea as a disease model to investigate a novel anti-angiogenic therapy to treat cornea neovascularization and opacity.