Evaluation of early abnormalities of the sensory retina in a hypercholesterolemia experimental model: an immunohistochemical study.

PURPOSE The aim of this study is to demonstrate the early changes of the sensory retina induced by hypercholesterolemia in an experimental model. METHODS New Zealand rabbits were divided into two groups: CG (Control Group) was fed a normal diet for 6 weeks. G1 was initially fed a 1% cholesterol diet for two weeks and from the 14th day on a 0.5% cholesterol diet until the 42nd day. The eyes underwent an immunohistochemical analysis with monoclonal antibodies anti-calretinin and anti-glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). RESULTS G1 cells and cell elements presented significant immunoreactivity to anti-calretinin. No immunoreactivity to anti-glial fibrillary acidic protein was observed in both groups. CONCLUSION This study has shown that a hypercholesterolemic diet may induce early changes in the sensory retina in rabbits. The anti-calretinin monoclonal antibody was able to reveal calcium accumulation inside the nerve cells.