W. Craig Fowler(1, 3), Bruce C. Roberts(2, 3), Elena L. Zarovnaya(2, 3), Alan D. Proia(2)
Duke University Medical Center Department of Ophthalmology(1), Duke University Medical Center Department of Pathology(2), Duke University Free Electron Laser Laboratory(3)
One of the most powerful aspects of the Free Electron Laser as a
biomedical research tool is its ability to tune to different
wavelengths. This allows the systematic evaluation of many different
wavelengths for a particular biomedical/surgical application. This
systematic evaluation of wavelengths also requires a well-defined and
relevant model with which to conduct these investigations. To this end
we have characterized the White Leghorn Chicken (Gallus, gallus
domesticus) as a model for corneal wound healing research. We found that
the chicken cornea closely parallels the human cornea anatomically and is
the only known subprimate to posses a Bowman's layer, which plays a
critical role in corneal wound healing. Furthermore, preliminary laser
wound-healing studies show that the chicken cornea responds and heals
after laser ablation in a manner very similar to that of human cornea,
including the occurrence of typical complications such as corneal
scaring. We have further developed the chicken cornea as a model for the
healing of corneal flaps used in laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK)
surgery. This model for LASIK flaps will allow us to test the integrity
of the cornea after surgery, and to test methods to improve this
integrity such as laser tissue welding.
