Study on experimental model of argon laser-induced choroidal neovascularization in the rabbits

Objective:To evaluate the feasibility of argon laser-induced choroidal neovascularization(CNV)model in the pigmental rabbits in order to establish the foundation for studying the mechanism of CNV and for the development of treatment for CNV.Methods:Experimental eyes in 20 rabbits were received a series of 20 argon green laser(514.5nm) lesions per eye (700 mW,50um,0.1s).Fundus fluorescein angiography(FFA) and indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) were performed,then the rabbits were sacrificed immediately,the eyes were enucleated and processed for histopathologic and immunohistochemistry examination on days 3,7,14,21,30.Results:CNV first appeared on day 7 after photocoagulation,reaching the peak on day 21.The incidence of CNV was 63.0%.Disciform leakage staining appeared in the FFA.ICGA showed that the disciform area was filled with CNV.CNV was ascertained by light microscopy.The immunohistochemistry examination of VEGF was positive in ganglion cell layer and inner nuclear layer of retina from 2w after photocoagulation.Conclusion:The present studies demonstrated that argon laser photocoagulation could be used to produce choroidal neovascularization experimental model in the pigmental rabbits.CNV can be induced rapidly by the method,persists for a long period and at a high successful rate.VEGF plays a role in the formation of CNV.