Longitudinal assessment of intraocular pressure in the 5xFAD mouse model of Alzheimer's disease - Report - MDSpire

Long-term Evaluation of Intraocular Pressure in the 5xFAD Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease

  • By

  • Raz Rubinshtein

  • Basel Obied

  • Talal Salti

  • Andres I. König

  • Alon Zahavi

  • Nitza Goldenberg-Cohen

  • July 21, 2026

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Long-term Evaluation of Intraocular Pressure in the 5xFAD Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease

Overview

This study assessed intraocular pressure (IOP) in a transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer's disease (AD) over time. Aged 5xFAD mice showed transient IOP fluctuations, but no sustained elevation compared to wild type controls.

Background

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a significant global health challenge, affecting millions and leading to cognitive decline and vision disturbances. Glaucoma, characterized by optic nerve degeneration and often associated with elevated IOP, has been linked to neurodegenerative diseases like AD. Understanding the relationship between IOP and AD pathology is crucial for developing effective management strategies for patients with both conditions.

Data Highlights

No sustained IOP elevation was observed in 5xFAD mice compared to wild type controls. Aged 5xFAD mice exhibited significant IOP fluctuations at day 36, with lower IOP than aged wild type controls.

Key Findings

  • Aged 5xFAD mice showed transient IOP fluctuations without sustained elevation.
  • Significant IOP decrease in aged 5xFAD mice was noted at day 36 compared to age-matched wild type controls.
  • IOP measurements were stable across most groups and time points.
  • Visual dysfunction in AD models may occur independently of elevated IOP.
  • 5xFAD mice develop early amyloid pathology, paralleling human AD features.

Clinical Implications

Further research is needed to explore the overlapping mechanisms between AD and glaucoma.

Conclusion

The study indicates that amyloid pathology in the 5xFAD mouse model does not lead to chronic ocular hypertension.

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  3. Acta Neuropathologica — In vivo multiphoton imaging demonstrates the progressive development of newly formed amyloid plaques over several weeks
  4. Advancing glaucoma care: What's new in the 6th edition of the European Glaucoma Society guidelines
  5. Alzheimer's Association clinical practice guideline for the Diagnostic Evaluation, Testing, Counseling, and Disclosure of Suspected Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (DETeCD-ADRD): Executive summary of recommendations for primary care - PubMed
  6. Acta Neuropathologica — Depletion of LAMP5 Interneurons Contributes to Neuronal Network Impairment in Alzheimer’s Disease
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  8. Advancing glaucoma care: What's new in the 6th edition of the European Glaucoma Society guidelines
  9. Alzheimer's Association clinical practice guideline for the Diagnostic Evaluation, Testing, Counseling, and Disclosure of Suspected Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (DETeCD-ADRD): Executive summary of recommendations for primary care - PubMed

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