Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of vision loss among older adults, characterized by the deterioration of the central portion of the retina. The pathophysiology involves multiple factors, including genetic predispositions, environmental influences, and oxidative stress. The development of AMD models is essential for elucidating pathophysiological mechanisms and evaluating therapeutic strategies.
Fig. 1 Pathology of AMD from the early to late stage. (Fernandes AR, et al., 2022)
At CD BioSciences, we specialize in offering custom models of AMD that closely replicate the histopathological features, supporting clients in advancing the development of anti-aging therapeutics.
Custom Mouse Models of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Genetically engineered mouse models of AMD
CD BioSciences provides custom genetically engineered mouse models that replicate key features in the pathogenesis of AMD. For example, we offer Cfh-/-, Ccl2-/-, and Cx3cr1-/- mice to simulate impaired complement regulation and chronic retinal inflammation, which are characterized by drusen-like deposits, photoreceptor degeneration, and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) atrophy. We provide Vldlr-/- mice for modeling subretinal neovascularization that mimics features of wet AMD.
Laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) mouse models of AMD
CD BioSciences develops laser-induced CNV mouse models for wet AMD research, which feature reproducible neovascular lesion formation and quantifiable vascular leakage.
Chemically induced mouse models of AMD
We provide NaIO3-induced retinal degeneration models to support clients in rapid screening of candidate therapeutics for dry AMD. Our scientists assist clients in customizing this model by adjusting dose, administration route, and observation period to meet specific study endpoints.
Senescence-accelerated mouse (SAM) models of AMD
We provide SAM strains, including SAMP8 and SAMP10 mice, which spontaneously exhibit key features relevant to AMD, such as retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) degeneration, photoreceptor loss, increased oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and chronic low-grade inflammation.
Our Aging Animal Models
Custom Non-human Primate Models of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Non-human primates (NHPs) are ideal models of AMD due to their macula-like retinal structure, presence of fovea, and similar immune microenvironment. CD BioSciences offers customized NHP models that replicate human AMD pathology through nutritional modulation, targeted subretinal injections of pro-angiogenic factors (e.g., VEGF, PDGF), and laser-induced disruption of Bruch's membrane, and induce CNV. Our experts use fundus photography, spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT), and indocyanine green angiography (ICGA) to monitor the progression of AMD.
Custom Rabbit and Pig Models of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Rabbits and pigs serve as appropriate models that bridge the gap between small rodents and primates. CD BioSciences offers custom rabbit and pig models that are particularly useful for AMD research due to their eye size and structure, which are more comparable to humans. We support clients in the development of wet AMD models using established induction methods, such as subretinal delivery of pro-angiogenic factors, implantation of VEGF/bFGF eluting scleral pellets, and surgical rupture of Bruch's membrane. Our company integrates multimodal imaging (fundus photography, OCT, and ICGA), behavioral assessment of visual function, and immunohistochemical analyses to provide comprehensive datasets for the development of anti-aging therapeutics.
By providing custom mouse, non-human primate, rabbit, and pig models of AMD, CD BioSciences supports researchers in their efforts to investigate the complexities of AMD and develop effective anti-aging therapeutics. If you are interested in our services, please feel free to contact us or make an online inquiry.
References
- Pennesi ME, et al. Animal models of age-related macular degeneration. Mol Aspects Med, 2012, 33 (4): 487-509.
- Fernandes AR, et al. Exudative versus Nonexudative Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Physiopathology and Treatment Options. Int J Mol Sci, 2022, 23 (5): 2592.
All of our services and products are intended for preclinical research use only and cannot be used to diagnose, treat or manage patients.
