Cataract-preventing contact lens for in vivo imaging of mouse retina

Abstract

In vivo imaging of mouse retinas using two-photon or confocal laser scanning fluorescence microscopy is a powerful tool for time-lapse analyses of the dynamic movements of cell populations. However, acute and reversible opacification of the crystalline lenses of mouse eyes under anesthesia decreases the visibility of the ocular fundus. Therefore, we developed a customized contact lens for preventing cataract during continuous retinal imaging in anesthetized mice. This experimental approach will aid in the elucidation of cellular and molecular dynamics in the CNS under physiological and pathological conditions.