Hemilimbal deficiency model of corneal neovascularization: Possible invalidity of the limbal barrier concept

ABSTRACT

To describe a novel model of corneal neovascularization [NV] in mouse cornea where hemilimbal deficiency is induced with or without corneal epithelial debridement. Following hemilimbal excision with or without corneal epithelial removal, mice corneas were examined and photographed prior to and following the onset of corneal NV. Slides were reviewed by visual observation for evidence of corneal NV. Corneas with complete removal of both limbus and epithelium [group I; n=10] all developed extensive corneal NV by post-operative days [POD] 3-10. Corneas with intact epithelium and complete removal of the limbus [group II; n=7] developed corneal NV by POD's 7 [n= 6] or 30 [n= 1]. Corneas where half of the limbus and more than half of the corneal epithelium were removed [group III; n= 9] developed vessels from the side opposite to the limbal injury by POD's 4-7. Corneas where half of the limbus removed and only the adjacent peripheral corneal epithelium were removed did not show any vessels [group IV; n= 9]. Removal of half of the limbus [hemilimbal deficiency] led to corneal NV from the opposite side of the cornea, in which the limbus was intact, raising question about the function of Limbus as a harrier to corneal NV