XB-ART-61489
Exp Eye Res
2025 Oct 23;259:110540. doi: 10.1016/j.exer.2025.110540.
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Characterization of optic nerve regeneration following Nd:YAG laser-induced injury in Xenopus tropicalis.
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A stable, precise, and replicable amphibian model of optic atrophy would advance the study of the mechanisms underlying post-injury optic nerve (ON) regeneration. A recent study developed a transgenic Xenopus laevis model that induced ON transection via laser microdissection, enabling fluorescence microscopy-based monitoring of axon dynamics. However, no studies have used Xenopus tropicalis to investigate optic atrophy. In the current study, we developed an ON injury model in Xenopus tropicalis using an Nd:YAG laser that exhibited several histopathological features resembling traumatic optic neuropathy. Histologically, the injured ON exhibited initial histolysis accompanied by sparse glia, followed by glial clustering and axonal regrowth. No glial scarring or inflammatory cells were observed. The ON sheath remained intact early, ruptured on day 6, and subsequently demonstrated gradual restoration. Immunofluorescence revealed glial activation (labeled with type III intermediate filaments) and axonal regrowth (Tuj1). Axon numbers significantly decreased but partially recovered afterward. A slight but significant decrease in retinal neurons was observed on day 12. RNA-seq analysis indicated that a suite of genes is involved in the repair process, and their functions are well documented in mammals. We hypothesized that in the absence of fibrotic scar formation, activated glial cells establish a permissive microenvironment conducive to the functional efficacy of this molecular ensemble, thereby enabling the coordinated execution of neuroprotective and pro-regenerative signaling pathways. Our findings complement those of other recent studies and advance the development of amphibian models for laser-induced ON injury.
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