Disease models

DL-AAA–Induced Retinal Neovascularization and Chronic Leakage

In 2018, Cao et al. (Regeneron Pharmaceuticals) introduced a rabbit model of chronic retinal neovascularization and vascular leakage induced by intravitreal injection of DL-2-aminoadipic acid (DL-AAA), a glutamate analog with gliotoxic properties. A single DL-AAA injection produces sustained retinal pathology, including persistent leakage and neovascular changes that can last over a year. The model is highly reproducible and demonstrates strong responsiveness to anti-VEGF agents, making it a valuable tool for evaluating long-term efficacy and durability of therapeutic interventions.

Advances in in vivo imaging, such as fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography, enable real-time tracking of disease progression and therapeutic response in the same animals over time, reducing reliance on terminal endpoints.

Technical details

Animal species

Rabbit

Method of induction

Intravitreal injection of DL-2-aminoadipic acid

Follow-up period

Model develops in 15 weeks;
Suitable both for short (4 weeks) and long-term (up to a year) efficacy studies

Readouts

A qualitative grade of retinal leakage (FA)

Scientific excellence in every model

Standardized evaluation of efficacy

Anti-angiogenic activity can be observed within one week, enabling efficient screening of test compounds.

Supports longitudinal in vivo imaging

Compatible with advanced imaging techniques (e.g., fluorescein angiography) for noninvasive, time-resolved monitoring of disease, treatment response and relapse.