Imaging Ocular Anatomy and Blood Flow in a Mouse Model of Glaucoma

Produced by the ciliary body, aqueous humor circulates throughout the anterior portion of the eye and exits primarily through the trabecular network in Schlemm’s canal and, finally, the body’s circulatory system. The balance between aqueous humor production and its outflow determines the pressure within the eye. This balance, or intraocular pressure (IOP), is usually altered in individuals with glaucoma. Dr. Foster is utilizing a high-frequency ultrasound system to measure changes in the anatomy and blood flow in the eyes of mice that have glaucoma. In order to help understand how this disease develops in greater detail, the eyes will be treated with drugs that are known to affect the course of glaucoma progression. The ultrasound system will give noninvasive anatomical and functional information about this mouse model of the disease, allowing longitudinal studies of individuals with glaucoma. This research could also assist in the testing and design of new treatments for glaucoma in the future.