Ophthalmology
Our ophthalmology services play a pivotal role in preclinical drug development in rodents, serving to evaluate potential treatments for a wide range of eye diseases and conditions. Rodent models provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of retinal diseases, glaucoma, and other ocular disorders. Through detailed ocular examinations and imaging techniques, coupled with precise drug product delivery, we provide the framework to our sponsor partners to assess drug efficacy, ocular distribution, and possible adverse effects on the eye's structures.
SPEAK TO A SCIENTIST
BOOK A MEETINGDelivery Modalities
· Intraorbital (IO) - Intraorbital delivery is a method of injecting drugs or cells into the rodent optic nerve through the optic foramen.
· Sub-retinal (SR) - Subretinal delivery is a surgical technique that involves injecting drugs, reagents, cells, and treatments into the retina of a mouse.
· Intravitreal (IVT) - Intravitreal delivery is a robust and minimally invasive method that is used to inject drug products into the eyes of rodents.
· Intracameral (IC) - Intracameral delivery involves injecting substances into the front chamber of the eye.
Behavioral Assays
Optomotor response
Assesses visual function and acuity by measuring the reflexive head and neck movements of rodents in response to rotating stripes. This test is useful for studying visual perception and neurodegenerative diseases affecting vision.
Optical coherence tomography (OCT)
Optical coherence tomography imaging is a valuable tool in preclinical drug development, for assessing retinal and ocular health. OCT provides high-resolution, cross-sectional images of the retina, allowing for detailed structural analysis. This non-invasive imaging technique is critical for evaluating the effects of pharmacological interventions on the eye and for studying the progression of ocular diseases.
In vivo electrophysiology
Electroretinography (ERG) - Electroretinography recordings provide significant value in preclinical drug development by enabling the assessment of retinal function and the effects of pharmacological interventions on the visual system. ERG measures the electrical responses of various cell types in the retina, including photoreceptors, bipolar cells, and ganglion cells, in response to light stimulation. MuriPhys utilities Celeris, a patented Light Guide electrode-stimulator that sets a new standard in pattern and flash electroretinography (ERG), delivering superior performance that meets the highest industry benchmarks.