In vivo imaging with a fundus camera in a rat model of laser-induced choroidal neovascularization.
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the use of imaging and quantitative measurement capabilities of a modified fundus camera in a rat model of laser-induced choroidal neovascularization.


METHODS
Following induction of experimental choroidal neovascularization, Dark Agouti rats underwent serial in vivo imaging with a fundus camera (FF450plus, Carl Zeiss MediTec, Jena, Germany), including color, reflectance and fluorescence imaging.


RESULTS
A custom-made setting allowed high-resolution imaging. Change of fluorescence intensity following intravenous or intravitreal dye injection could be quantitatively monitored over time. Hardware binning resulted in an improved signal-to-noise ratio and a reduction of flash light intensity. Simultaneous fluorescence imaging following injection of two different dendritic polygylcerol sulfate dyes could be demonstrated.


CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrates the use and optimizations of a fundus camera for various in vivo imaging modalities in rats. Molecular imaging of the eye may allow for better insights into cellular dysfunction and optimization of therapeutic strategies.
Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
Alexander
A
Cunea
Johanna
J
Meyer
Christoph
C
Russmann
Kai
K
Licha
Pia
P
Welker
Frank G
FG
Holz
Steffen
S
Schmitz-Valckenberg
D000818:Animals; D002829:Choroid / Q000098:blood supply / Q000473:pathology*; D020256:Choroidal Neovascularization / Q000175:diagnosis*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D005451:Fluorescein Angiography; D005654:Fundus Oculi; D007089:Image Enhancement; D007834:Lasers / Q000009:adverse effects; D008297:Male; D051381:Rats; D011919:Rats, Inbred Strains; D015203:Reproducibility of Results