The superior lacrimal gland is crucial for producing lacrimal fluid, which lubricates the ocular surface. This study outlines a method to induce dry eye disease (DED) in a rabbit model by injecting Concanavalin A into the palpebral gland.
The superior lacrimal gland is present in the upper lateral region of the eye's orbit. This gland has two parts - the larger upper orbital part is connected to the smaller palpebral part. The lacrimal gland produces the lacrimal fluid - an aqueous protective secretion - which drains from the lacrimal ducts into the eyes to lubricate the ocular surface. The inadequate production of lacrimal fluid leads to an ailment called dry eye disease, or DED.
To induce DED in a rabbit model, place an anesthetized rabbit, with the fur shaved around its pre-orbital and scalp region, laterally on a dissection board. This step allows for better visualization of the eye.
Evert the upper eyelid and apply gentle pressure on the posterior orbital rim. The palpebral gland appears as a bulbous protrusion on the posterior part of the eyelid. Take a syringe fitted with an appropriately sized needle containing the Concanavalin A or Con A. Pierce the conjunctival layer - a thin, mucous membrane covering the eye. Advance the needle transconjunctivally to reach the palpebral gland and inject the Con A solution into it.
Con A, which is an immune system activator, induces an influx of white blood cells into the gland, causing tissue inflammation. This process leads to a reduction in the lacrimal fluid production, eventually inducing DED in the rabbit model.
For palpebral portioning of the superior lacrimal gland injection, after confirming sedation, shear off the fur in the pre-orbital and scalp area, and use depilatory cream to completely remove any residual fur.
After 2 minutes, remove the cream and apply 25 microliters of 1% preservative-free lidocaine to the appropriate eye. Evert the upper eyelid, and apply gentle medial pressure to the posterior orbital rim until the protuberance marking the palpebral portion of the gland is seen. Using fine-toothed forceps and a tuberculin syringe equipped with a 27-Gauge needle, directly penetrate the gland via a transconjunctival approach advancing the needle two millimeters into the tissue, and inject 100 microliters of a 500 microgram solution of concanavalin A or ConA.
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