Characterization of cholesterol metabolism in an experimental model of glaucoma in rats

International audience; Glaucoma is a neurodegenerative pathology characterized by retinal ganglion cell death. Cholesterol homeostasis disruption has been implicated in several neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer and Huntington. However, its specific role in the retina and association with glaucoma remain unclear. The aim of this study was to characterize the modifications of cholesterol metabolism occurring during an experimental model of glaucoma in rats. Eight-weeks old male rats were subjected to laser photocoagulation of episcleral veins, limbus and trabecular meshwork to elevate intraocular pressure. At a short (3 days) and a long (2 months) time period post-laser, the retin…