A goniolens for clinical monitoring of the mouse iridocorneal angle and optic nerve.

PURPOSE: Due to the increasing importance of mouse models and mouse genetics in ophthalmic research, we have developed a goniolens for mice.

METHODS

The size and basic design parameters of a human goniolens were adapted to the mouse eye.

RESULTS

The goniolens is straightforward to use and allows non-invasive visualization of the structures of the anterior chamber angle, including Schlemm's canal, trabecular meshwork, iris and anterior surface of the peripheral ciliary body. Goniophotography using the mouse lens allows documentation of anterior chamber angle abnormalities, and facilitates comparisons of changes to these structures in the same eye over time. In addition, high quality magnified views of the optic nerve, retinal vessels and posterior retina are easily obtained.

CONCLUSIONS

This goniolens is an important new tool for studying the genetic and clinical etiology of anterior segment dysgenesis and glaucoma in mice.