Live mouse retinal imaging could advance vision disease- Here is what research says

New imaging method tracks microglia movements in live mouse retina over time. (Image: TACHIBANA Yoshihisa/KUSUHARA Sentaro/SOTANI Noriyuki)

Researchers have developed a revolutionary imaging method that allows scientists to observe the retina of live mice in real-time. Conducted at Kobe University, the technique provides unprecedented clarity, enabling long-term monitoring of the retina’s immune cells, or microglia and their minute movements.

What Did Researchers Find?

The study was published in the Proceedings of Sciences. It used diabetic mouse models to investigate early retinal changes. Researchers saw microglia in diabetic mice becoming highly active. They surrounded the retina, marking early stages of disease progression.

Findings show microglia activity starts before visible retinal damage appears. This provides a crucial window for early disease diagnosis opportunities. The insights from the study could guide improved detection and treatment methods. It may help fight diabetic retinopathy and related retinal conditions effectively.

How Does this Imaging Technique Work?

The method employs advanced in vivo imaging technology, allowing scientists to track microglial behaviour with high precision over extended periods. Researchers also tested liraglutide, which is a diabetes medication.

They found that it normalised hyperactive microglia in diabetic mice and reduced activity in healthy mice, suggesting the drug may directly modulate immune cells, independent of its blood sugar-lowering effects.

What could this Mean in Future?

This breakthrough could have implications for vision-related diseases, such as glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration. Researchers hope the technique could eventually be utilised as a non-invasive diagnostic tool, turning the eye into a window for detecting systemic diseases before symptoms appear.