Biomechanical analysis of ocular diseases and its in vitro study methods

Biomed Eng Online. 2022 Jul 23;21(1):49. doi: 10.1186/s12938-022-01019-1.

Abstract

Ocular diseases are closely related to the physiological changes in the eye sphere and its contents. Using biomechanical methods to explore the relationship between the structure and function of ocular tissue is beneficial to reveal the pathological processes. Studying the pathogenesis of various ocular diseases will be helpful for the diagnosis and treatment of ocular diseases. We provide a critical review of recent biomechanical analysis of ocular diseases including glaucoma, high myopia, and diabetes. And try to summarize the research about the biomechanical changes in ocular tissues (e.g., optic nerve head, sclera, cornea, etc.) associated with those diseases. The methods of ocular biomechanics research in vitro in recent years are also reviewed, including the measurement of biomechanics by ophthalmic equipment, finite element modeling, and biomechanical analysis methods. And the preparation and application of microfluidic eye chips that emerged in recent years were summarized. It provides new inspiration and opportunity for the pathogenesis of eye diseases and personalized and precise treatment.

Keywords: Finite element modeling; Microfluidic eye chip; Ocular biomechanics; Ocular diseases.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Cornea / physiology
  • Finite Element Analysis
  • Glaucoma*
  • Humans
  • Intraocular Pressure
  • Optic Disk*
  • Sclera