ACTIVATED MACROPHAGES IN EXPERIMENTAL SUBRETINAL NEOVASCULARIZATION

Laser-induced subretinal neovascularization (SRN) in monkey retinas was investigated by immunohistochemical techniques to identify the presence and location of activated macrophages. Retinal lesions were examined 3, 8 and 14 days after intensive argon laser treatment, and the distribution of interleukin-1 (IL-l)-containing cells in the lesions was determined by the orthogonal reconstruction of serial sections. Macrophages were present in the subretinal space of day 3 and day 8 lesions. These IL-l-containing cells were distributed about the area of rupture of Bruch's membrane and were quite common in lesions taken 3 days following laser treatment. While still apparent, the number was decreased at 8 days, and none were found 14 days after laser treatment. The temporal and spatial distribution of IL-l-staining macrophages paralleled the development of SRN, suggesting a relationship between the presence of activated macrophages and the initiation of neovascularization in this model. © 1990 S. Karger AG, Basel.