Cell Biology JoVE (Open Access) Citable · DOI

Using Optical Coherence Tomography and Optokinetic Response As Structural and Functional Visual System Readouts in Mice and Rats

Name: Using Optical Coherence Tomography and Optokinetic Response As Structural and Functional Visual System Readouts in Mice and Rats
Uploaded: 2026-07-14
Duration: 7 min 8 s
Description: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a fast, non-invasive, interferometric technique allowing high-resolution retinal imaging. It is an ideal tool for ...

DOI: 10.3791/58571-v

What you'll learn

✓ Perform optical coherence tomography (OCT) to assess rodent retinal structure
✓ Conduct optokinetic response (OKR) testing to measure visual function
✓ Interpret OCT and OKR data as complementary visual system readouts

Protocol

Biopharma Insights A detailed protocol for the assessment of structural and visual readouts in rodents by optical coherence tomography and optokinetic response is presented. The results provide valuable insights for ophthalmologic as well as neurologic research.

Difficulty

advanced

Total time

~45-60 min/animal (OCT + OKR combined)

Model organism

Mouse, Rat

Steps

Set up confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscopy-OCT system

Prepare and calibrate the OCT imaging apparatus for structural assessment of rodent retinas. Align optics and verify system functionality before animal imaging.

▶ 01:09

Perform optokinetic response behavioral testing

Execute OKR testing protocol to measure visual acuity and tracking behavior in response to moving visual stimuli. Record and quantify rodent eye-tracking responses.

▶ 04:22

Analyze protective substance effects on visual system

Integrate OCT structural data and OKR functional data to demonstrate treatment-dependent changes in retinal integrity and visual performance across test groups.

▶ 05:40

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