Animal Models of Retinopathy of Prematurity

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a condition affecting premature infants, is characterized by pathological angiogenesis, or neovascularization (NV), of the retina. Much of what is known about the development of the retinal vasculature and the progression of ROP has been learned through the use of animal models of oxygen-induced retinopathy (OIR), which approximate the human condition. Animal models of OIR have provided a wealth of information regarding the cellular and molecular pathogenesis of ROP. Moreover, this information has contributed to a better understanding of other, nonocular, neovascular conditions. This chapter describes the various animal models of OIR, and explores their contributions to the understanding and treatment of ROP.