Home › Cell Biology › A Step by Step Protocol for Subretinal Surgery in Rabbits
Cell Biology JoVE (Open Access) Citable · DOI

A Step by Step Protocol for Subretinal Surgery in Rabbits

DOI: 10.3791/53927-v
What you'll learn
  • ✓ Perform vitrectomy and subretinal access in rabbit eyes
  • ✓ Load and implant RPE cells via subretinal injection
  • ✓ Assess surgical outcomes and graft integration
Protocol

Biopharma Insights Retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) replacement strategies and gene-based therapy are considered for several retinal degenerative conditions. For clinical translation, large eye animal models are required to study surgical techniques applicable in patients. Here we present a rabbit model for subretinal surgery geared towards RPE transplantation, which is versatile and cost-efficient.

Difficulty
advanced
Total time
~2–3 hours per eye
Model organism
Rabbit (New Zealand White or similar)
Biosafety
BSL-1

Steps

1
Perform core vitrectomy procedure

Establish vitreous access and remove vitreous volume to enable visualization and subretinal space access. This creates the surgical window for RPE transplantation.

▶ 01:22
2
Load cells into injection device

Prepare and load RPE cells or therapeutic material into the shooter/injection apparatus according to protocol specifications. Ensure cell viability and correct concentration before implantation.

▶ 05:21
3
Execute subretinal cell implantation

Inject loaded cells into the subretinal space under visualization. Position graft in target location and confirm placement before instrument withdrawal.

▶ 06:45
4
Document surgical outcomes and endpoints

Assess graft position, retinal integrity, and immediate post-operative appearance. Record imaging data and observations for efficacy evaluation.

▶ 09:20
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