Protocol for Inducing Ocular Hypertension in Rats and Mice Using Circumlimbal Sutures

Abstract

The circumlimbal suture technique for inducing experimental ocular hypertension (OHT) in rodents can be utilized to achieve chronic intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation, however, it is fully reversible. This protocol provides guidance for the application and adjustments of the suturing approach for both rats and mice. In brief, by placing the animals under general anesthesia, a “purse-string” suture is threaded through and anchored to the conjunctiva around the equator, behind and parallel to the eyeball limbus. Using this procedure, moderate levels of IOP increases can be achieved over a 12-week time period. This protocol can induce retinal dysfunctions, specifically both structural and fun..