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ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology 149 Ocular Tumors: Experimental therapeutics Sunday, May 04, 2014 3:15 PM–5:00 PM S 330CD Paper Session Program #/Board # Range: 846–851 Organizing Section: Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 846 Presentation Time: 3:15 PM–3:30 PM NFkB Inhibition in Uveal Melanoma – construction of a new delivery system Shahar Frenkel1, Dudi Shneor1, 2, Alik Honigman2, Jacob Pe’er1. 1 Ophthalmology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel; 2Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, IMRIC, The Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel. Purpose: We have previously shown that NFkB inhibition leads to diminished uveal melanoma cell viability in vitro, and to necrosis of tumors in vivo in the mouse intrahepatic direct injection model. Here we describe the design of a targeted delivery system which affects only dividing cells - a recombinant Murine leukemia virus (MuLV)based replication-competent retroviruses (RCR) delivery system. Methods: We exchanged the GFP sequence in the IRES-GFP cassette of the MuLV-based RCR pACE with the NFkB nuclear localization sequence VQRKRQKLMP (pACE-NFkB-NLS). Five uveal melanoma cell lines were infected with the pACE-NFkB-NLS vector. Infected cells were grown on “chamber-slides” without or with the TNFα activator of NFkB, and the subcellular localization of NFkB was analyzed with a laser scanning confocal microscope (Nikon). Activity of NFkB was analyzed by transfecting infected cell with a luciferase based reporter gene. Cell viability and caspase 3 activity were determined using the Fluorescent Cell Viability and CaspaseGlo 3/7 Assays (Promega). Results: Expression of the NLS peptide inside the cells created a competition with the activated NFkB, and reduced its nuclear localization and its ability to trans-activate target genes. Conclusions: Inhibition of NFkB reduces cell viability and increases apoptosis. This new modality for NFkB inhibition which can spread through solid tumors is expected to better affect tumors in vivo than IV/IP administration of chemotherapeutics. Commercial Relationships: Shahar Frenkel, None; Dudi Shneor, None; Alik Honigman, None; Jacob Pe’er, None Support: ISF clinician-researcher, MOH Chief Scientist, HadassahHebrew University joint fund Program Number: 847 Presentation Time: 3:30 PM–3:45 PM Sensitivity and Resistance of Uveal Melanoma (UM) cells to PKC inhibition: Role of the Steroid Receptor Coactivator (SRC)-3 Vassiliki Poulaki1, Sue Anne Chew2, 3, Bert W. O’Malley3, Nicholas Mitsiades2, 3. 1VA Boston Hlthcare Sys, Ophtal, Boston University, Boston, MA; 2Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX; 3Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX. Purpose: We have previously reported that mutant G proteins (Gαq and Gα11) in UM promote, via the protein kinase C (PKC) pathway, the post-translational stabilization of SRC-3, a multifunctional transcriptional coactivator that is frequently overexpressed and confers poor prognosis in many types of cancers, including melanoma. G protein-mutant UM cells are exquisitely dependent on PKC activity and SRC-3 expression for their survival in vitro. We now examined the role of SRC-3 as a therapeutic target and as a downstream mediator of the PKC pathway in animal models of UM. Methods: We transfected GNAQ-mutant Mel202 cells with a plasmid expressing SRC-3 shRNA (2 different sequences) or control vector, under a tetracycline-inducible promoter. Cells were injected subcutaneously (sc) into immunocompromized mice and treated with doxycycline (provided in the drinking water). We also treated a xenograft model of 92.1 GNAQ-mutant UM cells with the PKC small molecule inhibitor (SMI) PKC412 (midostaurin). Results: Doxycycline-induced SRC-3 shRNA suppressed SRC-3 expression and exerted potent anticancer activity against UM cells in vitro and in vivo. The PKC SMI PKC412 suppressed SRC-3 protein expression in our UM xenograft model (92.1 cells) and exerted potent anticancer activity in vivo, prolonging median survival (not reached yet after 8 months of PKC412 treatment) compared to the vehicletreated cohort (2 weeks, see Fig. A). Acute restoration of SRC-3 expression by adenovirus rescued UM cells from the anticancer effect of PKC412. UM (92.1) cells with acquired resistance to PKC412 that emerged after prolonged treatment in vivo were found to express restored SRC-3 protein levels. Conclusions: SRC-3 is an important therapeutic target in UM in vitro and in vivo. We propose that SRC-3 is a downstream mediator of PKC signaling and that SRC-3 inhibition could restore sensitivity to PKC SMIs. Treatment of 92.1 UM cells xenografted sc into immunocompromized mice with PKC412 (100mg/kg/day, 5 days/ week) prolonged median survival (not reached yet after 8 months of treatment) compared to vehicle-treated controls (2 weeks, A). IHC revealed loss of SRC-3 expression in UM xenografts from PKC412treated mice (C) compared to the vehicle-treated mice (B). In the PKC412-treated mice that have died so far, IHC revealed that the PKC412-resistant UM xenografts express significantly higher levels of SRC-3 (D). Commercial Relationships: Vassiliki Poulaki, None; Sue Anne Chew, None; Bert W. O’Malley, None; Nicholas Mitsiades, None ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 848 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–4:00 PM Inhibition of STAT3 suppresses growth of retinoblastoma Dong Hyun Jo1, 2, Jin Hyoung Kim1, 3, Seung Ho Yoo1, 4, Young Suk Yu1, 5, Jeong Hun Kim1, 2. 1Fight against Angiogenesis-Related Blindness (FARB) Laboratory, Clinical Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Republic of Korea; 2Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea; 3Tumor Microenvironment Research Center, Global Core Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea; 4Department of Advanced Education for Clinician-Scientists, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea; 5Department of Ophthalmology, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea. Purpose: To investigate the therapeutic potential of STAT3 inhibition in the suppression of growth of retinoblastoma Methods: We evaluated the expression of activated STAT3 in human retinoblastoma tissues and mouse orthotopic transplantation models of retinoblastoma. Relative expressions of activated and total STAT3 were compared among normal and retinoblastoma cells (SNUOT-Rb1 and Y79) by Western blot and the levels of expression of target genes of STAT3 among cells were estimated by real time polymerase chain reaction. Retinoblastoma cells were transfected with small interfering RNA targeting STAT3 to identify the effect of STAT3 inhibition. Furthermore, we evaluated in vivo therapeutic effect of STAT3 inhibition in mouse retinoblastoma models. Results: We showed that phosphorylated form of STAT3 was expressed in human retinoblastoma tissues and mouse retinoblastoma models. Retinoblastoma cells also demonstrated relatively high expression of activated STAT3 and target genes of STAT3 compared to those of other normal cells. STAT3 inhibition via small interfering RNA led to decreased expression of target genes of STAT3 and suppressed the growth of retinoblastoma in in vivo mouse retinoblastoma models. Conclusions: Our results demonstrated that STAT3 inhibition might be a valuable therapeutic option against retinoblastoma. The proportion of disfigured eyes according to the status of STAT3 inhibition. STAT3 KD, STAT3 inhibition via small interfering RNA targeting STAT3. Commercial Relationships: Dong Hyun Jo, None; Jin Hyoung Kim, None; Seung Ho Yoo, None; Young Suk Yu, None; Jeong Hun Kim, None Program Number: 849 Presentation Time: 4:00 PM–4:15 PM Verteporfin (VP) inhibits human retinoblastoma cell growth in vitro without light activation. Katarzyna Brodowska, Ahmad Al Moujahed, Anna Marmalidou, Melissa Meyer zu Horste, Joanna Cichy, Joan W. Miller, Evangelos S. Gragoudas, Demetrios G. Vavvas. Angiogenesis Lab, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA. Purpose: Verteporfin (VP), a benzoporphyrin derivative, is clinically used as a photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy for neovascular macular degeneration and ocular tumors. Recent studies indicate that VP may inhibit growth of tumor cells without photoactivation through inhibition of YAP-TEAD complex. In this study, we examined the effects of VP without light activation on human retinoblastoma Y79 and WERI cell growth in vitro. Methods: Human retinoblastoma cell line Y79 and WERI was treated with VP. Cell growth was assessed by trypan blue exclusion test and MTT assay. Western blot analyses were performed to determine the expression of cell cycle regulators as well as potential YAP-TEAD downstream molecules and pathways such as mTOR/ autophagy and Akt. Results: VP treatment without light activation inhibited Y79 and WERI cell growth, proliferation and viability in a dose-dependent manner. VP increased doubling time and induced a mild G0/G1phase cell cycle arrest and downregulation of cyclins. Treatment of retinoblastoma cells with VP was associated with downregulation of YAP-TEAD associated downstream signaling molecules. In addition there was an inhibition of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway, decreased phosphorylation of Akt. Conclusions: VP without light activation is a potent inhibitor of cell growth in retinoblastoma Y79 and WERI cells and may provide a novel, non-chemotherapeutic approach for retinoblastoma treatment. Commercial Relationships: Katarzyna Brodowska, None; Ahmad Al Moujahed, None; Anna Marmalidou, None; Melissa Meyer zu Horste, None; Joanna Cichy, None; Joan W. Miller, Alcon (C), Imagen Biotech, Inc. (C), ISIS Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (C), KalVista Pharmaceuticals (C), Maculogix, Inc. (C), Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary (P), ONL Therapeutics, LLC (C), Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (C); Evangelos S. Gragoudas, QLT Phototherapeutics, Inc. (R); Demetrios G. Vavvas, None Support: National Eye Institute grant EY014104 - MEEI Core Grant Program Number: 850 Presentation Time: 4:15 PM–4:30 PM Pharmacologic Targeting of Skp2 in Retinoblastoma Xiaoliang L. Xu1, 3, Timothy Cardozo4, Dan-Ning Hu6, David Cobrinik5, David H. Abramson2, Suresh Jhanwar1. 1Department of Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY; 2Ophthalmic Oncology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY; 3Sloan-Kettering Institute, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY; 4Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology, New York University, New York, NY; 5The Saban Research Institute, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, University of South California, Los Angeles, NY; 6New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, New York Medical College, New York, NY. Purpose: Retinoblastoma is the most common primary intraocular malignancy in children. Significant numbers of patients still lose their eyes and even their lives in developing countries, in spite of current ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology advances in the treatment of retinoblastoma. Previously our studies showed that retinoblastomas exhibit retinal cone precursor properties and depend on cone-specific thyroid hormone receptor beta2 (TRB2) and SKP2 signaling (Xu et al, 2009; Wang et al, 2010). In this study, we sought to suppress retinoblastoma cell growth by chemical SKP2 inhibitors as a prelude to targeted therapy in vitro and in vivo. Methods: We knocked down TRB2 and SKP2 or over-expressed p27 in retinoblastoma cells to investigate SKP2 and p27 signaling alterations. The retinoblastoma cell lines Y79, WERI, and RB177 were treated with SKP2 inhibitors C1, C2 (Wu et al, 2012), #25, and #25-9(Chan et al, 2013) at different concentrations, following which Western blotting was performed to study SKP2 and p27 expression as well as ubiquitination. Results: TRB2 knockdown in Y79 and RB177 caused SKP2 downregulation and degradation, p27 up-regulation, and S phase arrest, whereas, SKP2 knockdown or p27 over-expression caused p27 accumulation and G1-S arrest. In the cell lines Y79, WERI, and RB177, treatment with C1 caused SKP2 ubiquitination and degradation, p27 de-ubiquitination and accumulation, and cell growth arrest. Compounds C2, #25, and #25-9, on the other hand exhibited only moderate effects on suppressing retinoblastoma growth without significant p27 level changes. Conclusions: Retinoblastoma tumorigenesis depends on conespecific TRB2 and SKP2 signaling. SKP2 is the synthetic lethal gene in retinoblastoma with RB1 loss. SKP2 inihibitor C1 significantly suppresses retinoblastoma cell growth by SKP2 degradation and p27 accumulation. In vivo animal model investigation of the effects of C1 on retinoblastoma cell growth is therefore warranted, and, in the long term, SKP2 targeted therapy, may be a promising therapeutic strategy for the treatment of retinoblastoma. Commercial Relationships: Xiaoliang L. Xu, None; Timothy Cardozo, None; Dan-Ning Hu, None; David Cobrinik, None; David H. Abramson, None; Suresh Jhanwar, None Support: Clinical Development Grant of Pathology, MSKCC; Gerber Foundation; Cycle for Survival Program Number: 851 Presentation Time: 4:30 PM–4:45 PM Identification of vascular endothelial growth factor protein in eyelid basal cell carcinomas: A potential novel, non-surgical therapy Christine Law, Ashley Minuk, Isabella Irrcher, James Farmer, Vladimir Kratky. Ophthalmology, Queen, Kingston, ON, Canada. Purpose: The gold-standard treatment for eyelid basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) is complete excision. Due to limited eyelid surface area, excisions may lead to extensive surgical reconstruction. Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents have been commonly used as targeted therapy of other systemic cancers. No research has quantified skin BCC VEGF levels relative to their pathologic subtype. We investigated the potential role of VEGF as a non-surgical treatment target by quantifying VEGF levels in eyelid BCCs, and testing the safety of bevacizumab eyelid injections in an animal model. Methods: All patients with biopsy-proven BCCs undergoing lesion excision from April to October 2013 were included. A 2.5mm punch biopsy was obtained from both the BCC and uninvolved skin away from the lesion. All BCC lesions were sent to pathology for final histopathologic diagnosis. The punch biopsy samples were processed for tissue VEGF levels through a commercially available VEGF enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. To assess safety, bevacizumab was injected subcutaneously into the left eyelid of New Zealand white rabbits. Each right rabbit eyelid received volume-matched saline control. Eyelid punch biopsies for histological examination of inflammation were obtained pre-injection, at week 1 and 5 postinjection. Adverse events were recorded, and photographs taken weekly to assess eyelids for gross clinical changes. Results: A total of 14 patients with pathology-proven BCCs were included. Histopathologic types included infiltrative (8/14), nodular (5/14), and micronodular (1/14). BCC versus uninvolved skin VEGF levels were not different as a whole (1219 pg/mL vs. 974 pg/mL; P=0.400). However, according to their histopathologic type, infiltrative BCCs displayed significantly higher VEGF levels compared to non-cancerous skin (1334 pg/mL vs. 343 pg/mL; P=0.001). Nodular BCC VEGF levels were not elevated (949 pg/mL vs. 1709 pg/mL; P=0.204). No adverse events, significant inflammation, or gross clinical change of rabbit eyelids were seen at any time point after bevacizumab injection. Conclusions: We show (1) eyelid infiltrative BCCs, the most aggressive of our subtypes, are VEGF-positive tumors, and (2) bevacizumab eyelid injections are safe through our animal model. Thus anti-VEGF therapy may offer a novel, targeted, non-surgical treatment option for infiltrative BCCs. Commercial Relationships: Christine Law, None; Ashley Minuk, None; Isabella Irrcher, None; James Farmer, None; Vladimir Kratky, None 211 Ocular Tumors: Molecular genetics Monday, May 05, 2014 8:30 AM–10:15 AM S 330CD Paper Session Program #/Board # Range: 1282–1288 Organizing Section: Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 1282 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–8:45 AM Analysis of the Hedgehog signalling pathway in periocular sebaceous gland carcinoma John Bladen1, 2, Caroline Thaung3, Michele Beaconsfield2, Edel O’Toole1, Michael Philpott1. 1Centre for Cutaneous Research, Barts & The London School of Medicine, London, United Kingdom; 2 Adnexal Oncology, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom; 3Pathology, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom. Purpose: Sebaceous gland carcinoma (SGC) is a masquerader of benign conditions leading to significant eye morbidity, including destructive surgical treatment such as exenteration, and mortality in up to 22% of patients. Little is known about the genetic or molecular basis of SGC. Aberrant Hedgehog (Hh) signalling has been implicated, however, the pathway has not been assessed in detail. In contrast, basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is known to involve the Hh pathway, often through mutational inactivation of the Patched-1 (PTCH1) gene. This makes BCC a good tumour for comparison of abnormal Hh activation. The aim is to identify any canonical Hh pathway aberrance in SGC along with its magnitude by comparing it directly to nodular BCC. Methods: Periocular SGC and nodular BCC tissue were obtained from the Moorfields Biobank; SGC (n=15) samples were compared to nodular BCC (n=10) and control tissue (testes, n=4). Expression of PTCH1, Smoothened (SMO), and Glioblastoma transcription factors (GLI1 and GLI2) were assessed in histological sections using immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence techniques. Semiquantification was carried out comparing tumours and control tissue using Image J. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Results: Upregulation of the canonical Hh signalling pathway in SGC was demonstrated by overexpression of PTCH1, SMO, GLI1 and GLI2 compared to nodular BCC and control tissue. Conclusions: The Hh signalling pathway is significantly more upregulated in periocular SGC compared to nodular BCC, a known aberrant Hh pathway tumour. This raises the possibility of potential treatment targets that are already in clinical practice (such as SMO antagonists) to avoid or reduce destructive surgical treatment, preserve vision and prevent mortality. Commercial Relationships: John Bladen, None; Caroline Thaung, None; Michele Beaconsfield, None; Edel O’Toole, None; Michael Philpott, None Support: Fight for Sight Program Number: 1283 Presentation Time: 8:45 AM–9:00 AM Copy number variations in conjunctival melanoma detected by Single Nucleotide Polymorphism array Nihal Kenawy1, 3, Bertil E. Damato2, 3, Sarah E. Coupland1, Sarah L. Lake1. 1Molecular and clinical cancer medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom; 2Ocular Oncology, University of California, San Fransisco, CA; 3Liverpool Ocular Oncology Centre, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom. Purpose: Despite the evolving research into the molecular changes in conjunctival melanoma (CoM), the molecular etiology of this disease is still uncertain. In this study, we aimed to determine gene copy number variations (CNVs) occurring in CoM with a view to ultimately, identifying disease-specific biomarkers that could be used to develop prognostic testing, as has been achieved in uveal melanoma, and improve patient care. Methods: In this study, 56 patients with primary CoM were recruited from five centres in Europe and the USA between 2005 and 2012. DNA was extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded excised tumors. Sufficient DNA for analysis using the Affymetrix 6.0 Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) microarray was obtained from 33 samples. Data analysis was performed using the Partek Genomic suite of software. Results: Amplification of PIK3CA (3q26.32) and LRRC16A (6p22.2) was observed in 52% of patient samples. Less commonly, amplification of CDK6 (7q21.2), WISP1 (8q24.22) and KRAS (12p12.1) were detected in 48%, 45% and 36% of tumors, respectively. Recurrent deletions were detected in GPRIN2 (10q11.22) and JAK2 (9p24.1) in 39% of CoM. In addition, RET (10q11.21), WWOX (16q23.1), CELF4 (18q12.2) and BTNL8 (5q35.3), were deleted in 36% of the patient cohort. There was no statistical correlation between the frequency of genetic alterations in the CoM and whether they metastasized, were of epithelioid cell type, or arose in the caruncle. Amplification of TAF6L (11q12.3) was statistically significantly associated with non-bulbar tumor location (p=0.048, Fisher’s exact test). Conclusions: This study improves our understanding of CoM pathogenesis by identifying CNVs, in individual genes, not previously detected in CoM. The observed alterations differ from those seen in both uveal and cutaneous melanomas, further suggesting different etiological mechanisms for each of these tumor types. Validation of the identified CNVs by an alternative methodology is needed, in addition to investigation of their biological significance to further improve our understanding of the molecular regulation of CoM development. This will facilitate the identification of patients at high-risk of recurrence or metastasis and, potentially, allow for the development of targeted therapies in CoM. Commercial Relationships: Nihal Kenawy, None; Bertil E. Damato, None; Sarah E. Coupland, None; Sarah L. Lake, None Support: Eye Tumour Research Fund JXR10418 Program Number: 1284 Presentation Time: 9:00 AM–9:15 AM Activation of the MAP kinase pathway is involved in tumor progression of conjunctival melanocytic proliferations Alexandre P. Moulin1, Maya Bucher2, Francois Majo3, Michael J. Nicolas3. 1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Lausanne, Jules Gonin Eye Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland; 2Dermatology, University of Lausanne, CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland; 3Department of Ophthalmology, University of Lausanne, Jules Gonin Eye Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland. Purpose: The molecular events leading to the development of conjunctival melanoma have not been extensively studied. As activating mutations of BRAF and NRAS have recently been identified in a mutually exclusive way in 47% of conjunctival melanoma, we decided to evaluate the activation status of the MAP kinase pathway and PI3K/mTOR pathway in benign and malignant conjunctival melanocytic proliferations. Methods: The phosphorylation status of MEK, ERK and S6 ribosomal protein was evaluated by immunohistochemistry in 35 conjunctival naevi and 31 conjunctival melanoma. Statistical analysis was performed with JUMP 8,0 software. Immunohistochemistry was assessed independently by three observers. Results: There was a concordance in 85%, 87,9% and 96,5% of the cases in the evaluation of the activation of MEK, ERK and S6 respectively. Discrepant cases were simultaneously reviewed to achieve complete agreement. There were 13 subepithelial nevi and 22 compound nevi. There were 14 females and 21 males with a mean age was 36.9 ± 3.6 yo (SEM). P-MEK was found in 20 nevi (59%). P-ERK was found 17 nevi (49 %). P-S6 was found in 11 nevi (49%). The melanoma group was composed of 17 females and 14 males with a mean age of 67.1 ± 3.38 yo (SEM). Using TNM classification, 10 tumors were belonging to the T1, 10 to the T2 and 11 to the T3 categories. P-MEK and p-ERK were both identified in 27 melanoma (87%). P-S6 was found in 29 melanoma (94%). The phosphorylation of MEK and ERK and S6 was significantly elevated in the melanoma compared to the nevi (p=0,0109; 0,0009 and p> 0,0001 respectively). There was also a significant correlation between the activation of MEK and ERK (p=0,0045). Conclusions: Our results demonstrate in vivo a significant increase in the activation of the MAP kinase pathway in malignant conjunctival melanocytic proliferations. We also identified a significant increase in the phosphorylation of S6 ribosomal protein suggesting a contribution of the P13K/mTOR pathway to conjunctival melanoma development. The inhibition of these pathways might represent potential therapeutical options for the treatment of conjunctival melanoma. Commercial Relationships: Alexandre P. Moulin, None; Maya Bucher, None; Francois Majo, None; Michael J. Nicolas, None ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 1285 Presentation Time: 9:15 AM–9:30 AM Melanoma Inhibitor of Apoptosis (ML-IAP) – Driven Expression of the Pro-Apoptotic Protein BAD in Uveal Melanoma Cells Jon R. Backstrom1, Stephanie M. Evans1, Ashwath Jayagopal1, 2 1 . Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Nashville, TN; 2Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN. Purpose: The paucity of effective treatments and low survival rate of patients with metastatic uveal melanoma warrant new targeting strategies. Our goal is to develop adeno-associated viruses that selectively express cargo genes (such as the pro-apoptotic gene, BAD) in uveal melanoma cells that have metastasized to the liver. Expression of ML-IAP (birc7/livin) is restricted to melanomas and RPE. Therefore, we evaluated the promoter activity of ML-IAP in uveal melanoma and RPE cell lines. Methods: The ML-IAP promoter and BAD cDNA were cloned from the human melanoma cell line SK-MEL-28. Site-directed mutagenesis was used to mutate the ML-IAP promoter at consensus transcription factor binding sites and BAD cDNA at previously characterized phosphorylation sites. Plasmids with ML-IAP/BAD upstream of either CMV/Renilla luciferase or CMV/mCherry were introduced into primary and metastatic uveal melanoma cell lines derived from the same patient. A CMV/Renilla plasmid without MLIAP/BAD was used in separate wells as a negative control for BAD activity since ML-IAP-driven expression of BAD results in cell death and concomitant lower luciferase activity. Immunocytochemistry with antibodies against cleaved caspase-3 was used to monitor apoptosis of cells transiently expressing BAD-FLAG and mCherry. Results: Higher levels of endogenous ML-IAP protein were detected on immunoblots prepared from primary melanoma cells than from metastatic cells. The effectiveness of introduced ML-IAP/BAD was abrogated (highest luciferase activity) with a single serine-to-aspartic acid mutation at the Bcl2/Bcl-XL interaction site of BAD and increased (lowest luciferase activity) with serine-to-alanine mutations at three phosphorylation sites (BAD-3SA). Therefore, BAD-3SA was utilized for subsequent analyses of the ML-IAP promoter. The MLIAP/BAD-3SA construct was most effective in primary melanoma cells and least effective in the RPE cell line ARPE-19. Mutations at all of the E-box sites in the ML-IAP promoter (MITF, USF, and AP4) prevented BAD-3SA activity in primary melanoma cells, but not metastatic cells. Conclusions: The ML-IAP promoter is capable of driving expression of BAD at levels that promote apoptosis of uveal melanoma cells. Furthermore, the data raise the intriguing possibility that transcription factor interactions at the ML-IAP promoter change as cells transition from primary to metastatic. Commercial Relationships: Jon R. Backstrom, None; Stephanie M. Evans, None; Ashwath Jayagopal, None Support: R01EY023397, P30EY008126, Research to Prevent Blindness Program Number: 1286 Presentation Time: 9:30 AM–9:45 AM Relationships between clinical features, molecular classification, 4-gene mutation profile and outcomes in uveal melanoma Daniel L. Chao, J William Harbour. Ocular Oncology Service, Bascom Palmer Eye Inst, Univ of Miami, Miami, FL. Purpose: To analyze the relationships between clinical features, gene expression profile (GEP) molecular classification, and mutation status of four driver mutations in uveal melanoma. Methods: 70 primary untreated uveal melanomas underwent GEP classification and mutational analysis for GNAQ, GNA11, BAP1, SF3B1 mutations. GEP and mutation status were analyzed for association with patient age and sex, tumor diameter and thickness, ciliary body involvement, extraocular tumor extension, histological cell type, and metastasis. Results: GNAQ and GNA11 mutations were found in a mutually exclusive fashion in 85% of samples. BAP1 mutations were found almost exclusively in class 2 tumors and were associated with class 2 GEP, older patient age, ciliary body involvement, increased tumor diameter and thickness and epithelioid cell type. SF3B1 mutations were inversely associated with class 2 GEP, BAP1 mutations, and epithelioid cell type. Conclusions: The relationships between GEP classification and the four driver mutations point out the two major pathways of uveal melanoma progression (class 1/SF3B1 versus class 2/BAP1 pathways), and provide a basis for rational drug selection for treating metastatic uveal melanoma. Commercial Relationships: Daniel L. Chao, None; J William Harbour, Castle Biosciences (C), Castle Biosciences (P) Support: This work was supported by grants to J.W.H. from the National Cancer Institute (R01 CA125970), Melanoma Research Alliance, Melanoma Research Foundation and Tumori Foundation, as well as NIH Core Grant P30EY014801, Research to Prevent Blindness Unrestricted Grant, and Department of Defense Grant #W81XWH-09-1-0675 to the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute. Program Number: 1287 Presentation Time: 9:45 AM–10:00 AM Quantitative Label-free LC-MS Proteomic Analysis of Uveal Melanoma Identifies Proteins Associated with Metastasis Pathma Ramasamy3, 2, Michael Henry3, Martin Clynes3, Conor Murphy2, 1, Anne-Marie Larkin3, Stephen Beatty4, Paul Moriarty1, Susan Kennedy1, 5, Paula Meleady3, 5. 1Ophthalmology, Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital Dublin Ireland, Dublin 2, Ireland; 2 Ophthalmology, Royal College of Surgeons Ireland, Dublin, Ireland; 3 National Institute of Cellular Biotechnology, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland; 4Macular Pigment Research Group, Waterford Institute of Technology, Waterford, Ireland; 5Joint senior authors, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland. Purpose: To further the molecular biological understanding of the events governing the development of metastatic disease and to identify therapeutic targets for patients at risk of developing metastasis/patients with metastatic disease by comparing the protein expression profile between primary uveal melanoma (UM) tissues of patients who developed metastatic disease compared to those that did not. Methods: 8 fresh frozen primary UM tissues of patients who developed metastasis vs. 8 who did not were subjected to quantitative, label-free LC-MS proteomic analysis. These patients had a minimum of 7 years follow-up. UM tissue samples were homogenised, lysed and proteins were digested into peptides using trypsin prior to mass spectrometry (MS) analysis. Progenesis LC-MS software was used to analyse the protein expression profile. Criteria applied to the data prior to exporting the MS output file for peptide identification were peptide features with p < 0.01, charge states +1 to +3 and > 3 isotopes per peptide. Peptides were identified with MASCOT searched against the UniProtKB–SwissProt database. Proteins with < 3 peptides and proteins with peptide conflicts were excluded. Only differentially expressed proteins with p < 0.05 between the two patient groups were considered. Results: A total of 401 proteins were identified (global proteome). 50 proteins were found to be differentially expressed between metastatic and non-metastatic primary UM tissues. 28 proteins were upregulated and 22 were downregulated in UM tissues that developed metastasis. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Increased expression of FABP3 and TPI1, and decreased expression of HSP-27, among other differentially expressed proteins were found. These proteins potentially are associated with the development of metastatic disease. A number of proteins of interest are currently being evaluated by immunohistochemistry using tissue microarrays and FFPE sections on patient groups. Conclusions: Proteomic analysis of 8 metastatic vs. 8 non-metastatic primary uveal melanoma tissue has identified proteins that are associated with the development of metastatic disease. Commercial Relationships: Pathma Ramasamy, None; Michael Henry, None; Martin Clynes, None; Conor Murphy, None; AnneMarie Larkin, None; Stephen Beatty, None; Paul Moriarty, None; Susan Kennedy, None; Paula Meleady, None Support: Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Research Foundation Program Number: 1288 Presentation Time: 10:00 AM–10:15 AM MACC1 gene expression in Retinoblastoma Geeta K. Vemuganti1, Rohini M. Nair1, Adit Gupta2, Swathi Kaliki2, Mohammad J Ali2, Santosh Honavar3, Dilip Mishra4. 1School of Medical Sciences, University of Hyderbad, Hyderabad, India; 2 Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery, Orbit & Ocular Oncology, L.V.Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India; 3Ocular Oncology Service, Centre for Sight Superspeciality Eye Hospital, Hyderabad, India; 4 Ophthalmic Pathology Laboratory, L.V.Prasad Eye Institute, Hyderabad, India. Purpose: Histopathologic high risk factors(HRF) are well established prognostic markers in retinoblastoma(Rb).Metastasis Associated in Colon Cancer1(MACC1) gene is reported as an important prognostic indicator for systemic metastasis and metastasis-free survival in many cancers like Colon,Breast,and Gastric.This study aims to evaluate MACC1 expression in Rb cases,with and without HRF,and its possible association with clinical outcome. Methods: After IRB approval,medical records of histopathologically proven Rb cases with(n=12) and without HRF(n=11) were retrieved from the Ocular Oncology Service and Ophthalmic Pathology Laboratory,LVPEI.Of these,19(83%) cases had undergone primary enucleation and 4(17%) secondary enucleation following poor response to systemic chemotherapy.Patients with HRF underwent bone marrow and cerebro-spinal fluid evaluation for metastasis and treated using the standard clinical protocol with 6 cycles of adjuvant systemic chemotherapy(Vincristine,Etoposide,Carboplatin).RNA was isolated from FFPE tissues(central calotte only) and evaluated for MACC1 expression by semi-quantitative PCR.The relative gene expression was quantified using Image Lab software(Bio-Rad). Expression levels were correlated with HRF and clinical outcome of patients. Results: Mean age of patients at presentation was 30 months. Bilateral Rb was noted in 47%(11/23) cases with 65% being male. Leucokoria was the chief presenting clinical feature(78%).In HRF cases,the average MACC1 expression was increased(3.46 vs 2.68, p=0.09) with 50% showing more than 3 fold increase compared to negative controls.In no HRF cases,≥ 3 fold expression of MACC1 was seen in 18% of cases.MACC1 expression was marginally increased in poorly differentiated cases(48%) compared to well and moderately differentiated cases(3.15 vs 3.02fold,p=0.4).It was also higher in cases that underwent primary enucleation(83%), compared to those who underwent secondary enucleation post-systemic chemotherapy (4/23)(3.15 vs 2.8fold,p=0.67).At a mean follow-up of 27 months(3-48 months),except 1 patient who died at 3 months post enucleation,none of them showed evidence of local recurrence or metastasis. Conclusions: This study shows that high MACC1 expression in Rb correlates with histologic risk factor,thus indicating its possible role in tumor invasion and metastasis.However,further studies on larger cohort and multivariate analysis is warranted to establish its role as a potential prognostic marker in retinoblastoma. Commercial Relationships: Geeta K. Vemuganti, None; Rohini M. Nair, None; Adit Gupta, None; Swathi Kaliki, None; Mohammad J Ali, None; Santosh Honavar, None; Dilip Mishra, None Support: Indian Council of Medical Research, Hyderabad Eye Research Foundation 240 Immunohistichemistry Monday, May 05, 2014 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Exhibit/Poster Hall SA Poster Session Program #/Board # Range: 1843–1854/A0399–A0410 Organizing Section: Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 1843 Poster Board Number: A0399 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Establishment and Regulation of the B lymphocytes and Orbital Fibroblasts Co-culture in Thyroid Associated Ophthalmopathy Renyan Wang. 1Ophthalmology, Beijing Tsinghua Chang Gung hospital, Beijing, China; 2Ophthalmology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China. Purpose: 1.To establish and to identify an in vitro experimental model of autoimmune TAO by co-culture the orbital fibroblasts and peripheral B lymphocytes. 2.To investigate the Insulin-like growth factor-1(IGF-1R) receptor expressing on OFs, observe the inflammatory responses in the model, and explore the important role of B cells in TAO. 3.Exploring pathogenesis and therapeutic approaches for TAO. Methods: 1.Orbital fibroblasts obtained from 15 patients with TAO and from 15 control subjects were used to set up primary cultures, and were identified by immunohistochemistry. B lymphocytes were isolated from peripheral blood obtained from 10 patients with TAO and 10 controls. B cells were enriched, purified using immunomagnetic beads separation techniques and analyzed by folw cytometry. 2.The IGF-1R of OFs were evaluated by flow cytometry and observed under confocal microscopy. The expression of interleukin-6 and chemoattractants RANTES of were quantified by ELISA at 24hours,48 hours and 72 hours after co-culture. 3.The depleting effects of Rituximab on B cells at several concentrations in different time were measured by MTS. The inhibition on the expression of IL-6 and RANTES after using RTX and IGF-1 binding protein on the co-culture model were analyzed by ELISA. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Results: 1.The co-culture of orbital fibroblasts and B lymphocytes was established. 2.The expression of IGF-1R on OFs in patients with TAO was significantly higher than normal’s. 3.The expression of IL-6 and RANTES in each co-culture group was increased at 24 hours, especially in the T+T group (B lymphocytes and orbital fibroblasts all obtained from the TAO patients) is the highest. 4.RTX and IGF-1 binding protein significantly inhibited the expression of IL-6 and RANTES in the T+T co-culture group at 48 hours. Conclusions: 1.An in vitro model that partially represents TAO, as an autoimmune inflammatory disease, was established by co-culture of orbital fibroblasts and peripheral B lymphoctes. The interactions between the two cells may play a role in TAO pathogenesis. 2.IGF-1R may be the pathway in the interactions between OFs and B cells. It may mediate the process of TAO. Inflammatory responses may be depressed after blocking the recptor. 3.B cell depleting agents RTX have a good anti-inflammatory effects in the vitro model. Monoclonal anti-CD20 antibody therapy may be a novel treatment option in TAO in the future. Commercial Relationships: Renyan Wang, None Program Number: 1844 Poster Board Number: A0400 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Catestatin-like immunoreactivity in the rat eye Maren Kriechbaum1, Oliver W. Gramlich1, Katrin Lorenz1, Franz H. Grus1, Daniela Ehrlich2, Christian Humpel2, Reiner Fischer Colbrie3, Nikolaos . E. Bechrakis4, Josef Troger4. 1Experimental Ophthalmology, University Medical Center Mainz, Mainz, Germany; 2 Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Laboratory of Psychiatry and Experimental Alzheimers Research, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; 3Department of Pharmacology, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; 4Department of Ophthalmology, Medical University of Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria. Purpose: The aim of the study was to investigate the presence and distribution of the chromogranin A-derived peptide catestatin in the rat eye and trigeminal ganglion. Methods: Western blots were performed in an attempt to characterize the immunoreactivities detected by the catestatin antiserum and the distribution pattern was explored by immunofluorescence. Results: Sparse immunoreactive nerve fibers were visualized in the corneal stroma, in the chamber angle, in the sphincter muscle but also in association with the dilator muscle, in the stroma of the ciliary body and processes, but dense in the irideal stroma, around blood vessels at the limbus and in the choroid and in cells of the innermost retina representing amacrine cells as identified by colocalization with substance P. Furthermore, catestatin-immunoreactivity was detected in the trigeminal ganglion in small to medium-sized cells and there were abundant catestatin-positive nerve fibers stained throughout the stroma of the ganglion. Double immunofluorescence of catestatin with substance P revealed colocalization both in cells of the trigeminal ganglion as well as in nerve fibers in the choroid. The immunoreactivities are present obviously as free catestatin and/ or small-sized catestatin-containing fragments in the retina and ocular nerves but as large processed fragments as well, weak in the retina and more prominent in remaining ocular tissues, possibly in endothelial cells. Conclusions: The results indicate that this peptide is a constituent of sensory neurons innervating the rat eye and the presence in amacrine cells in the retina is typical for neuropeptides. Catestatin is biologically highly active and might be of significance in the pathophysiology of the eye. Commercial Relationships: Maren Kriechbaum, None; Oliver W. Gramlich, None; Katrin Lorenz, None; Franz H. Grus, None; Daniela Ehrlich, None; Christian Humpel, None; Reiner Fischer Colbrie, None; Nikolaos . E. Bechrakis, None; Josef Troger, None Program Number: 1845 Poster Board Number: A0401 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Spheroidal degeneration in H626R TGFBI corneal stromal dystrophy: clinical, genetic, histopathologic, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural analysis Kevin Lai1, Jason Reidy1, Benjamin Bert2, Tatyana Milman1. 1 Ophthalmology, New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, New York, NY; 2Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA. Purpose: To describe the clinical, imaging, histopathologic, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural characteristics of coexistent amyloid and spheroidal degeneration-type deposits in a family with Histidine-626-Argenine Transforming Growth Factor Beta Inducible Gene (H626R TGFBI) corneal stromal dystrophy. Methods: Retrospective clinical-pathologic and genetic analysis of one family with H626R lattice dystrophy. Results: The disease showed autosomal dominant inheritance pattern by pedigree analysis. The affected individuals presented in 4th or 5th decades with progressive visual impairment and recurrent erosions. Ophthalmic examination of the 3 affected family members revealed asymmetric, thick, branching lattice-like deposits, associated with corneal haze. Sequencing of the TFGBI gene revealed a highpenetrance disease causing sequence variation (H626R CAT>CGT heterozygous). Optical coherence tomography demonstrated fusiform, poorly demarcated, hyper-echoic stromal deposits, consistent with amyloid, with focal hypo-echoic central region. Histologic evaluation of the corneal buttons from the 2 affected family members showed stromal fusiform Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS)-positive, Congo redpositive, birefringent, and keratoepithelin antibody-immunoreactive deposits, consistent with TGFBI amyloid. Few amyloid deposits contained a central nidus of spheroidal degeneration-type material. This material demonstrated autofluorescence, stained with elastic and Masson-trichrome stains, did not stain with PAS or Congo red stains, was non-birefringent, and did not immunoreact with keratoepithelin antibodies. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed the presence of peripheral amyloid fibrils with central electrodense, homogeneous, discrete spheroidal degeneration-type deposits. Conclusions: Presence of spheroidal degeneration-type deposits in a subset of affected patients, the variability in presentation within an individual and between the family members, the predominant anterior corneal stromal location and the non-immunoreactivity of deposits for keratoepithelin suggest that these deposits are degenerative in nature. The deposits may arise from ultraviolet light-altered proteins diffused from the limbus, which form a nidus for mutant keratoepithelin deposition in patients with the late onset H626R lattice dystrophy variant. Commercial Relationships: Kevin Lai, None; Jason Reidy, None; Benjamin Bert, None; Tatyana Milman, None ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 1846 Poster Board Number: A0402 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Superficial Conjunctival Epithelium as the Main Producer of Protective Tear Component Cystatin SN An-Katrien De Roo1, 3, Beatrijs Foets4, 2, Joost J. van den Oord1, 3. 1 Department of Imaging & Pathology, Unit of Translational Cell & Tissue Research, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; 2Department of Neurosciences, Unit of Research Group Ophthalmology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; 3Department of Pathology, UZ Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; 4Department of Ophthalmology, UZ Leuven, Leuven, Belgium. Purpose: CST1 is a gene known to be expressed in lacrimal glands. Its corresponding protein cystatin SN, is a component of human tear fluid, that is thought to play a protective role by inhibiting cysteine proteases. We investigated whether the conjunctival and corneal epithelia contribute to the production of cystatin SN and whether this production increases in response to injury. Methods: From our Pathology files we selected formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues from 13 corneas from enucleated uveal melanomas, 5 donor corneal rims, 9 corneas with acute keratitis, 2 pterygia, 1 conjunctival naevocellular naevus, 1 conjunctival intraepithelial neoplasia, 1 conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma, and 3 lacrimal glands. Permissions from the local Ethics Committee and Biobank were obtained. Tissue sections were manually stained for cystatin SN. Results: All normal corneas showed strong and diffuse immunoreactivity for cystatin SN in the superficial layers of the conjunctival epithelium and corneal limbus, with an abrupt loss of staining in the more central corneal epithelium. Scarce immunoreactivity was observed in a proportion of epithelial cells lining the main excretory ducts and in a minority of secretory cells of the lacrimal glands. Gain of immunoreactivity occurred in the central corneal epithelium of injured corneas. The basal layer of conjunctival and corneal epithelium did not stain. Intraepithelial conjunctival neoplasia showed hyperplasia of the basal cell layers, lacking immunoreactivity. A minority of tumor cells within the nests of squamous cell carcinoma were stained. No reactivity was seen in naevus cells. Conclusions: In contrast to current belief, these findings show that the conjunctiva, and not the lacrimal gland, is the main producer of cystatin SN in the anterior eye. Furthermore, the gain of corneal epithelial immunoreactivity in injured corneas supports the presumed role of CST1 in protecting the anterior ocular surface. The absence of staining in basal epithelial cells suggests that production of cystatin SN requires a certain level of cell maturation. And finally, cystatin SN can be proposed as a new and robust marker to distinguish between peripheral and central corneal epithelium in the normal cornea. Polymerase chain reaction will be conducted to confirm that this immunoreactivity is due to CST1 expression and not to uptake of the protein from the surrounding tear fluid. Commercial Relationships: An-Katrien De Roo, None; Beatrijs Foets, None; Joost J. van den Oord, None Support: PhD fellow for Research Foundation – Flanders (11C7513N) Program Number: 1847 Poster Board Number: A0403 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Clinicopathologic Features of Ophthalmic Neoplasms Arising in the Setting of Xeroderma Pigmentosum Maria J. Suarez B, Fausto J. Rodriguez. Ophthalmic Pathology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD. Purpose: To determine the clinical, pathologic and immunohistochemical (IHC) features of neoplasms involving the ocular surface and/or adnexa in three patients satisfying clinical criteria for Xeroderma Pigmentosum (XP). Methods: We retrieved formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded material from tumors involving the ocular surface and ocular adnexa from 3 patients with XP who underwent clinical evaluation at our institution. Clinical information was obtained by retrospective chart review. Histopathological evaluation was performed, as well as immunohistochemistry in all available cases using antibodies directed against the most common mutated proteins in XP patients (XPA, XPC, and XPD). Scoring of nuclear immunoreactivity was performed in 3-tiered scale: 2=moderate to strong staining; 1=weak/focal staining; 0=negative staining. Results: Three (9, 13, 28 years old) patients of African descent with XP (2 males, 1 female) and ocular and adnexal tumors were studied. Patient 1 had two squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) in the conjunctiva (one in situ and one invasive). Patient 2 had invasive basal cell carcinoma (BCC), SCC in situ of the eyelid, and orbital malignant melanoma with recurrence. Patient 3 had invasive SCC of the eyelid. Nuclear expression of XPA, XPC, and XPD proteins in normal eyelid skin, particularly in basal epithelium and adnexal glands, was noted in controls. Nuclear staining for XPD was also present in normal conjunctiva. In patient 1, immunoexpression of XPA and XPC was present in both tumors, while XPD was lost in the invasive (but not in situ) SCC. Conversely, patient 2 had XPA loss in invasive tumors (BCC, melanoma) and retained XPC and XPD. Positive immunoreactivity for XPA, XPC and XPD in SCC in situ was present. Finally, patient 3 showed retained XPA, XPC, and XPD expression in SCC. Conclusions: Our study outlines our early experience with pathology of ocular neoplasms in XP patients. XPC immunoreactivity in all tumors suggests that XPC genetic alterations may not be a common feature in our population. Immunohistochemistry for XPA and XPD may be more useful in the study of invasive tumors compared to in situ carcinoma. These findings deserve further exploration with genetic studies and additional patients. Commercial Relationships: Maria J. Suarez B, None; Fausto J. Rodriguez, None Program Number: 1848 Poster Board Number: A0404 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Novel ultrastructural patterns of corneal immunoglobulin deposition in monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance Andrew A. Kao1, Jason Reidy3, David S. Chu4, Ira J. Udell5, Anne Steiner5, Carrie Zaslow5, Tatyana Milman1, 2. 1Ophthalmology, The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, New York, NY; 2Pathology, The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, New York, NY; 3Beth Israel Medical Center, New York, NY; 4The Institute of Ophthalmology & Visual Science, UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ; 5 Ophthalmology, North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System, Great Neck, NY. Purpose: To describe two novel ultrastructural patterns of corneal immunoglobulin deposition in monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS). Methods: The corneal buttons of two patients with monoclonal gammopathy were studied. Histologic sections of corneal tissue were stained with hematoxylin and eosin, periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), Masson trichrome, and Congo red stains. Immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization (ISH) studies for immunoglobulin heavy and light chains were performed on the histologic sections. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was also performed. Pertinent literature was reviewed. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Results: Patient 1: A 76-year-old woman presented with bilateral corneal haze and vascularization believed to be secondary to old interstitial keratitis. Penetrating keratoplasty was performed. Histologic analysis revealed eosinophilic deposits within the corneal stroma which stained strongly with Masson trichrome. ISH failed to demonstrate the presence of light chains. TEM demonstrated extracellular electron-dense stromal scroll-like deposits ranging in size from 100-300 nm in diameter. Further clinical workup demonstrated MGUS.The patient is being monitored without treatment, with no recurrence noted at 16-month follow-up. Patient 2: A 53-year-old man presented with bilateral crystalline corneal opacities in the epithelium and superficial stroma in 2008. Serum protein electrophoresis (SPEP) was negative. The haze worsened in 2013 and repeat SPEP showed an M spike, presumed MGUS. Corneal biopsy demonstrated non-birefringent eosinophilic, PAS-positive, and Masson trichrome-positive deposits within the epithelium, Bowman layer, and superficial stroma. The deposits immunoreacted with antibodies to lambda light chains. TEM demonstrated round, electron-dense deposits consistent with immune complexes. Systemic workup including bone marrow biopsy is pending. Conclusions: To our knowledge, the ultrastructural patterns of large scroll-like deposits and immune complexes have not been previously described in the cornea but have been reported in the kidneys of patients with paraproteinemia. Our findings underscore the importance of careful clinical, histopathologic and ultrastructural evaluation of patients with corneal opacities suggestive of paraproteinemia. Commercial Relationships: Andrew A. Kao, None; Jason Reidy, None; David S. Chu, None; Ira J. Udell, None; Anne Steiner, None; Carrie Zaslow, None; Tatyana Milman, None Program Number: 1849 Poster Board Number: A0405 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Fluorescence Microscopy Identification of Retinal Pigment Epithelium-65 and Zonular Occludens-1 Expression in Spontaneously Differentiated Human Embryonic Stem Cell derived Retinal Pigment Epithelium Cells Lee R. Ferguson, K V Chalam. Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Jacksonville, FL. Purpose: To evaluate cellular expression profiles of retinal pigment epithelium-65 (RPE65) and zonular occludens-1 (ZO-1) markers during spontaneous differentiation human embryonic stem cell into retinal pigment epithelial cells (hESC-RPE) Methods: Human embryonic stem cells (hESC), from the WA09DL-11 feeder dependent line, were removed from liquid nitrogen and grown on a confluent layer of inactivated mouse embryonic fibroblast. Differentiated pigmented embryoid body (EB) clusters were dissected from undifferentiated hESC colonies. After dissection, EBs were isolated onto 6-well gelatin coated plates for further monolayer expansion into hESC-RPE cells. Confluent monolayers were passaged 2 – 3 weeks following EB isolation and plated onto gelatin-coated slides. Each slide was placed into a 10 mm petri dish filled with RPE maintenance media and allowed to grow to either 7, 21, or 35 days post passage. Slides were extracted on designated time points and prepared for immunohistocytochemistry with antibodies targeted to RPE65 and ZO-1. Immunofluorescence was performed under 10x magnification on an inverted Olympus IX51-IX2-SL microscope with Olympus U-RFL-T fluorescence lamp. Results: Day seven following hESC-RPE precursor cell plating showed no evidence of RPE65 or ZO-1 expression. Two weeks later on day 21, maturation of hESC-RPE precursor cells demonstrated an enhanced fluorescence of RPE65 and a slight fluorescence increase in ZO-1 expression. Four weeks after precursor cell plating, fluorescence intensity for both RPE65 and ZO-1 was more intense than the prior two time points. Conclusions: This study shows enhanced in vitro cellular expression patterns of RPE65 and ZO-1 during differentiation of hESC-RPE precursor cells into a more mature state. Based on the above findings, precursor hESC-RPE cells demonstrate RPE marker patterns between one to three weeks after plating. This information can assist with therapeutic implementation especially when attempting to identify points of hESC-RPE precursor maturation. Commercial Relationships: Lee R. Ferguson, None; K V Chalam, None Program Number: 1850 Poster Board Number: A0406 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Alzheimer-induced changes in biomarkers in the Human Lateral Geniculate Nucleus Elizabeth Couser1, Steven L. Bernstein2. 1Gerontology Doctoral Program, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Baltimore, MD; 2 Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD. Purpose: While Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients are known to experience histological retinal changes, the thalamic intermediaries connecting eye and cortex have been understudied. We wanted to examine whether Alzheimer’s disease (AD) biomarkers are expressed in the normal human lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) and whether AD alters the presence of these markers. We also wanted to determine whether these markers are expressed in pre-clinical AD. Methods: Following IRB approval, we obtained human tissue samples from the Maryland Brain and Tissue Bank. These included normal, pre-clinical, and severe AD. We immunohistochemically evaluated human LGN for the expression of both AD markers (phosphorylated tau, amyloid precursor protein (APP) and amyloid-β (Aβ)) and inflammation using standard immunohistochemistry (IHC) procedures. Cellular inflammation was compared using IBA1. Slides were analyzed using a confocal fluorescent microscope and Fluoview Software. Results: While normal tissue showed minimal expression of AD biomarkers, there was a progressive increase in Tau, Aβ, APP, and inflammation in the lateral geniculate nucleus through the different stages of AD severity. Interestingly, the inflammatory response and deposits of AD biomarkers were shown in significant amounts in the pre-clinical AD samples of the LGN. Conclusions: The LGN-thalamic structure shows AD-induced alterations as the disease progresses and very early in the disease process. This may result in a decreased ability to process visual information, and visual problems. The presence of inflammation and AD-related biomarkers in pre-clinical AD patients suggests that for at least some older adults, changes in visual processing ability and speed may be due to AD onset, and not normal age-related visual decline. Commercial Relationships: Elizabeth Couser, None; Steven L. Bernstein, None Program Number: 1851 Poster Board Number: A0407 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Müller Cell Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP) Upregulation in Experimental Glaucoma is not dependent on the Presence of Retinal Ganglion Cells (RGCs) Jeffrey C. Ockuly1, Charlene B Y. Kim1, 2, Brian J. Christian3, Mélissa C. De Lombaert1, T Michael Nork1, 2. 1University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI; 2Ocular Services On Demand, LLC (OSOD), Madison, WI; 3Covance, Inc., Madison, WI. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Purpose: To determine the relationship of GFAP upregulation in Müller cells to elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and the presence of RGCs in experimental glaucoma and axotomy in monkeys. Methods: Immunohistochemistry for GFAP was performed on the retinas of both eyes of 13 monkeys. In all of the animals, the right eye was the experimental eye and the left eye was the untreated control. 6 cynomolgus macaques had glaucoma induced by laser trabecular destruction (LTD) from 3 to 9 years prior to sacrifice. The mean IOPs during the last 14 months of life varied from 23 to 54 mmHg in the treated eyes (43 mean for all animals). 4 cynomolgus macaques had inferior hemiretinal endodiathermy axotomy (HEA) either 3 or 4 months prior to sacrifice with no elevation in IOP (Dashek et al, IOVS, 2013;54:3479). 3 rhesus macaques had HEA axotomy and 9.5 months later underwent LTD (mean IOP varied from 34 to 56 mmHg) and were sacrificed 4.5 months after LTD. Results: Although the retinal astrocytes and optic nerve oligodendrocytes were strongly positive for GFAP, there was little or no upregulation of GFAP in the Müller cells in any of the 6 eyes with chronic glaucoma. Likewise, there was no upregulation of GFAP in the Müller cells of any of the 4 eyes that underwent HEA alone. However, there was marked Müller cell GFAP upregulation in both the superior (no axotomy) and inferior (axotomy) areas of all 3 eyes that had HEA plus 4.5 months of experimental glaucoma. Conclusions: Müller cell GFAP upregulation is not dependent on the presence of RGCs since upregulation occurred even though RGCs were essentially absent from the axotomized areas of retina in the 3 HEA animals with elevated IOP. However, elevated IOP alone is not a sufficient condition for sustained Müller cell GFAP upregulation because it was not readily apparent in any of the 6 eyes with chronic glaucoma. One possibility is that Müller cell GFAP upregulation is the result of retinal ischemia, such as from decreased choroidal blood flow. Compensatory mechanisms, e.g. increased blood flow or decreased retinal oxygen need due to retinal cell death and/or lowered metabolism, may have allowed the Müller cell GFAP to return to nearly normal levels in the eyes with chronic glaucoma. Commercial Relationships: Jeffrey C. Ockuly, None; Charlene B Y. Kim, None; Brian J. Christian, None; Mélissa C. De Lombaert, None; T Michael Nork, None Support: NIH Grant P30 EY016665, Research to Prevent Blindness, The Wisconsin National Primate Research Center P51RR000167/ P51OD011106 Program Number: 1852 Poster Board Number: A0408 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Elevated photoreceptor COX-2 expression correlates with aging retinas Carlos Quezada1, 2, Patrick Logan1, Ana Beatriz T. Dias1, Francisco Ceballos1, Lisa Jagan1, Tiago Briccoli1, Miguel N. Burnier1. 1 Ophthalmology & Pathology, The Henry C. Witelson Ocular Pathology Laboratory, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; 2 California Retina Consultants, Santa Barbara, CA. Purpose: While COX-2 is often associated with inflammation and neoplasia, published reports have shown COX-2 to be expressed in normal tissue. Our aim was to evaluate expression of COX-2 in all layers of the normal human retina and determine whether correlations with age or gender exist Methods: 130 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded normal human eyes were selected to investigate the expression of COX-2. Immunohistochemistry was performed using anti-human COX2 antibody. Immunostaining was classified based on intensity (negative=0, weak=1, strong=2) and extent (negative=0, staining ≤50% of cells=1, staining >50% of cells=2). An immunoreactive score (IRS) was calculated to describe the expression of COX-2 using the following equation: 2 x expression x intensity. Results were expressed in the following manner: 0-2=negative, 3-4=weak, ≥5=strong. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to estimate the association between age and staining score of any layer. Linear regression analysis was used to determine possible correlations between IRS and time elapsed between death and enucleation or enucleation and tissue processing p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant Results: Of the 130 eyes evaluated, 72 were from female donors, 53 from male donors, and 5 from donors with no gender information. Mean age was 62.1 years. A total of 78 cases had RPE and 66 had sufficient neurosensory retina for evaluation. The number of cases with positive COX-2 expression by retinal layer was: retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE): 61/78; nerve fiber layer: 33/66; ganglion cell layer: 58/66; inner plexiform layer: 55/66; inner nuclear layer: 36/66; outer plexiform layer: 56/66; outer nuclear layer: 31/66; photoreceptors: 55/66. COX-2 expression in the photoreceptors was significantly correlated with older donor age (p=0.045). COX-2 IRS was strong in the ganglion cell, photoreceptor and RPE layers. No significant correlations were found between IRS and time elapsed between death and enucleation or IRS and time elapsed between enucleation and tissue processing Conclusions: COX-2 is expressed throughout the normal human retina with strong expression on ganglion cell, photoreceptor and RPE layers. Its expression in photoreceptors is significantly correlated with older age. These results demonstrate that consideration of a role for COX-2 in normal retinal physiology is warranted, particularly when anti-COX-2 medications are being prescribed Commercial Relationships: Carlos Quezada, None; Patrick Logan, None; Ana Beatriz T. Dias, None; Francisco Ceballos, None; Lisa Jagan, None; Tiago Briccoli, None; Miguel N. Burnier, None Program Number: 1853 Poster Board Number: A0409 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM SIRTUINS ARE DIFFERENTIALLY EXPRESSED IN DISTINCT RETINAL LAYERS Natàlia Vilà, Pablo Zoroquiain, Shawn C Maloney, Ana Beatriz T. Dias, Emilia Antecka, Miguel N. Burnier. Ophthalmology - Ocular Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada. Purpose: While recent studies have indicated a role for Sirtuins (SIRT) in biological processes, including metabolic diseases, cancer, diabetes and aging, the exact nature of SIRT functions has not been elucidated. Moreover, their function and expression in normal ocular tissues remain unknown. The aim of this study is to evaluate the expression of all sirtuin proteins (SIRT1-7) in normal human retinas. Methods: Twenty-three formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded normal donor eyes (mean age = 72+/- 21.7 years), were evaluated in this study. Immunohistochemistry was performed on serial sections of all eyes with antibodies against each of the seven individual sirtuins (SIRT1-7). Staining was graded semi-quantitatively in the macula area and peripheral retina based on the intensity (negative=0, weak=1, strong=2) and extent (negative=0, staining ≤50% of cells=1, staining >50% of cells=2). A combined score was calculated to describe the expression for each sirtuin using the following equation: 2 x expression x intensity. Results were expressed in the following manner: 0 to 2=negative, 3 to 4= weak expression, ≥5 = strong expression. Results: All sirtuins were expressed in all of the studied retinas; however, the staining score differed for each sirtuin across the various retinal layers assessed. The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) expressed SIRT-4, 6 and 7. SIRT-6 was strongly positive only in the ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology macula, and both SIRT-4 and -7 were also strongly positive in the macula and peripheral retina. The inner nuclear layer (INL) weakly expressed SIRT-3 throughout the retina. The outer nuclear layer (ONL) was the sole structure that was negative for all sirtuins. No significant differences were found between macular and peripheral retina in the same layer, except for SIRT-6 in RPE, which was strongly expressed in the macula while negative in the peripheral retina (p<0.05). Conclusions: Our data provides an overview of the expression of sirtuins in normal human retinas. SIRT-3 was the only sirtuin protein found in the inner nuclear layer, while no sirtuins were expressed in the outer nuclear layer of the retina. These results serve as a foundation for further research into the roles of sirtuins in normal and diseased retina. Commercial Relationships: Natàlia Vilà, None; Pablo Zoroquiain, None; Shawn C Maloney, None; Ana Beatriz T. Dias, None; Emilia Antecka, None; Miguel N. Burnier, None Program Number: 1854 Poster Board Number: A0410 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Expression of amyloid and tau proteins in the Octodon degus retina Monica L. Acosta1, Lily Chang1, Alvaro Ardiles2, Adrian Palacios2. 1 Optometry & Vision Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; 2Centro Interdisciplinario de Neurociencias, Universidad de Valparaiso, Valparaiso, Chile. Purpose: To determine whether the Octodon degus, an animal model of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) expresses amyloid and tau proteins indicative of AD in the eye as a function of development. Methods: The retina from developing Octodon degus aged less than 6 months (2-6 months-old; n=6) and adults older than 5 years old (n=7) were employed. Eyes were collected immediately postmortem and immersion fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde in PBS (pH 7.4) for over an hour. Immunocytochemical methods were applied to cross-sections of the retina and retinal whole mounts. Horseradish peroxidase (HRP-DAB) staining was carried out on similar sections. The retina was immunolabeled against the major AD proteins using antibodies against amyloid-beta (APPA4), Aβ peptide (Aβ4G8, Aβ6E10), Aβ oligomers (A11), tau (Tau5A6) and hyperphosphorylated tau (PHF-tau). The area occupied by the antibody mark in young and old retina was quantified. Congo red staining was used to determine the presence of Aβ plaques. Results: AD proteins were predominantly expressed in the ganglion cell layer in the adult but not in the young retina. Tau and hyperphosphorylated tau were expressed in the central and peripheral retina. Normal amyloid proteins were expressed in both young and old retina while Aβ oligomers were only seen in old animals central retina. Congo red staining revealed no apple-green birefringence. Conclusions: There was an age-related expression of AD proteins in O. degus eyes and the existence of common factors in the ocular and brain tissues involved in AD etiology/pathogenesis. This further supports the idea that non-invasive eye tests could be developed for early AD diagnosis and that O. degus is a suitable model for developing and validating diagnostic tests. Commercial Relationships: Monica L. Acosta, None; Lily Chang, None; Alvaro Ardiles, None; Adrian Palacios, None Support: Neurological Foundation 309 New Insights into the Anatomy of Blood and Lymphatic Vasculature of the Eye - Minisymposium Tuesday, May 06, 2014 8:30 AM–10:15 AM S 330CD Minisymposium Program #/Board # Range: 2691–2696 Organizing Section: Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 2691 Presentation Time: 8:32 AM–8:47 AM Immunhistochemical Detection of Blood and Lymphatic Vessels: Potency and Limitations of Novel Markers Falk Schroedl. 1Ophthalmology, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria; 2Anatomy, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria. Presentation Description: The lymphatic system has major impact on the drainage of extracellular fluid, immune response and tumor dissemination. The detection of lymphatic vessels in routine histological sections was long time not unequivocally possible since appropriate markers were lacking. This changed with the introduction of LYVE-1 or podoplanin as markers for lymphatic endothelium. However, the specificity of a single marker is not 100%, and depends also on the tissue or tumor investigated. While in the immunprivileged and normally alymphatic eye, lymphatic vessels were detected under pathological conditions, their existence is still controversially discussed in normal conditions. Therefore we here summarize various markers of lymphatic vessels and discuss their relation to vascular endothelial markers with special emphasis on the ocular situation. Commercial Relationships: Falk Schroedl, None Support: University grant PMU-FFF R13-/01/042-KAS Program Number: 2692 Presentation Time: 8:47 AM–9:02 AM In Vivo Imaging of Blood Vessels: Potential and Limitations of OCT-based methods at the Ocular Surface and Fundus Robert J. Zawadzki. Ophthalmology & Vision Science, UC Davis, Sacramento, CA. Presentation Description: Improving our ability of non-invasive imaging of blood vasculature in the eyes remains a subject of intensive research. Over last several years substantial progress has been made in developing Optical Coherence Tomography - based methods allowing in-vivo evaluation of the vasculature of the anterior and posterior segments of the eye. In this talk I will briefly present review of the current imaging methods followed by example images of blood vasculature acquired in-vivo in the eyes of human subjects and animal models. Commercial Relationships: Robert J. Zawadzki, None Support: National Eye Institute (EY 014743 and EY 021054), UC Davis RISE Grant, NSF I/UCRC Grant and Research to Prevent Blindness. Program Number: 2693 Presentation Time: 9:02 AM–9:17 AM Vasculature of the Cornea and Ocular Surface: New Implications for Corneal Transplantation and Dry Eye Disease Claus Cursiefen. Dept of Ophthalmology, Koln, Germany. Presentation Description: Pathologic hem- and especially lymphangiogenesis have recently been shown to be involved in mediating immune responses at the ocular surface such as dry eye disease and corneal allograft rejection. Here the role of normal and pathologic vasculature of cornea and conjunctiva in mediating immune responses and new therapeutic strategies aimed at these pathologic vascular events are outlined. Finally, the interaction ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology between blood and lymphatic vessels and immune cell poplations at the ocular surface are discussed. Commercial Relationships: Claus Cursiefen, Allergan (C), Gene Signal (C), Novaliq (C) Support: DFG Cu 47/4-1 331 Myopia Tuesday, May 06, 2014 11:00 AM–12:45 PM S 330CD Paper Session Program #/Board # Range: 3035–3041 Organizing Section: Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 2694 Presentation Time: 9:17 AM–9:32 AM Vasculature of the Conjunctiva: New Implications for Ocular Tumors Ludwig M. Heindl. Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany. Presentation Description: The human conjunctiva is physiologically well-endowed with blood and lymphatic vessels. The induction of angiogenesis with sprouting of new capillary blood vessels from preexisting ones is generally considered as one of the six hallmarks of cancer, since tumors require sustenance in the form of nutrients and oxygen as well as an ability to evacuate metabolic wastes and carbon dioxide. Furthermore, the outgrowth of new from preexisting lymphatic vessels, the so-called tumor-associated lymphangiogenesis, is regarded as the initial step in lymphogenic metastasis of several non-ocular malignant tumors. Recently, tumor-associated lymphangiogenesis could be detected in malignant tumors affecting the ocular surface, and associated with prognostic significance for the risk of local recurrence, lymphatic spread, distant metastasis and tumor-related death. In the future, novel antihemangiogenic and antilymphangiogenic therapies might help to enhance survival of these ocular tumor patients. Commercial Relationships: Ludwig M. Heindl, None Support: None. Program Number: 3035 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–11:15 AM Zebrafish as a Model to Study Emmetropization, Refractive Error, and Retinal Substructure using Spectral Domain-Optical Coherence Tomography Ross F. Collery1, Francie Moehring1, Robert F. Cooper3, Adam M. Dubis1, Joseph Carroll1, 2, Brian A. Link1. 1Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI; 2Ophthalmology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI; 3Biomedical Engineering, Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI. Purpose: Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SDOCT) accurately measures the anatomy and dimensions of the eye in vivo. Here, we characterize emmetropization of wild-type zebrafish, myopia onset in bugeye/lrp2 mutants, and visualize the highly ordered cone photoreceptor mosaic by SD-OCT. We combine high resolution visualization with an animal model amenable to genetic manipulation that can be used to study candidate genes for refractive error and other ocular diseases. Methods: Eye axial length, focal length and lens diameter were measured in wild-type and bugeye/lrp2 mutant zebrafish throughout their lifespan using a Bioptigen SD-OCT system. Cone photoreceptor mosaics were visualized using en face summed volume projection (SVP) images derived from the SD-OCT volume scans. Melanin synthesis was ablated in a subset of RPE cells using TALENmediated inactivation of tyrosinase. Results: We found that wild-type zebrafish became emmetropic by 1 month, while bugeye/lrp2 mutants were myopic, and worsened as they aged. Wild-type fish maintained emmetropia, and our data show that their lenses grow to balance the focusing power required as eye size increases. By generating SVP images at different retinal depths, we visualized the UV and S cone submosaics. Density measurements of these submosaics agreed with published values from histology. SVP images focused on the RPE layer showed regional melanin inhibition provided by the TALEN technique, with improved discrimination of the cone-RPE interface and underlying choroid and sclera in B-scans of ‘windows’ of non-pigmented RPE. Conclusions: As the zebrafish eye uses only lens refraction and axial length to control emmetropia, we can assay the effects of genes associated with myopia specifically on axial length modulation, the largest single contributor to refractive error. Changes in retinal morphology can be assessed during induction of blinding disorders by SD-OCT, and changes in cone density or patterning can be used to assess photoreceptor damage in visual disorders. Program Number: 2695 Presentation Time: 9:32 AM–9:47 AM Vasculature of the Retina and Choroid: New Implications for retinal diseases Richard F. Spaide. Vitreous Retina Macula Consultants, New York, NY. Presentation Description: . Commercial Relationships: Richard F. Spaide, Topcon (C), Topcon (P) Program Number: 2696 Presentation Time: 9:47 AM–10:02 AM In Vivo Imaging of Lymphatics: Challenges and Opportunities Yeni H. Yucel. Ophthal & Vision Sciences, Univ of Toronto/St Michael Hosp, Toronto, ON, Canada. Presentation Description: New insights into the recently discovered ocular lymphatics suggest a role in aqueous humor drainage in addition to eye immunity. Non-invasive in vivo imaging techniques have been used to track systemic and ocular lymphatic drainage in animal models. Available novel detection systems, advantages, limitations, and application to the study of lymphatics in health and diseases of the eye, will be reviewed. Commercial Relationships: Yeni H. Yucel, None Support: Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Leaders Opportunity Fund - Canada Foundation for Innovation, Glaucoma Research Society of Canada ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology A. B-scan showing anatomy of adult zebrafish eye; B. B-scan of adult zebrafish retina; C. en face (SVP) showing photoreceptor mosaic; D. merged SVPs from different depths showing UV cone and S cone submosaics (magenta, green); E. SVP of mosaic RPE showing nonpigmented cell areas (dark) surrounded by normal pigmented areas (bright) Commercial Relationships: Ross F. Collery, None; Francie Moehring, None; Robert F. Cooper, None; Adam M. Dubis, None; Joseph Carroll, None; Brian A. Link, None Support: NIH/NEI R01EY016060; P30EY001931; Research to Prevent Blindness Program Number: 3036 Presentation Time: 11:15 AM–11:30 AM The role of cell-cell coupling in myopia development and light adaptation Michelle Teves1, Qing Shi2, William K. Stell3, Derek Eng1. 1B.Sc. Neuroscience Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada; 2 Graduate Neuroscience Program, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada; 3Cell Biology and Anatomy, and Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada. Purpose: Myopia is a refractive disorder in which excessive elongation of the eye causes blurring of distance-vision. Dopamine (DA) and nitric oxide (NO), which are released in the retina under light-adaptation, are critical for myopia-prevention and light adaptation. How they work is still poorly understood; but both have been shown to uncouple gap junctions in retinal networks. Therefore, cell-cell coupling in the retina may play a key role in the regulation of ocular growth, e.g., by mediating the effects of light, DA, and NO on spatial contrast sensitivity (CS) in the retina. We tested this hypothesis using a gap junction blocker, meclofenamic acid (MFA), to determine its effect on myopia development and spatial CS. Methods: Form-deprivation myopia (FDM) was induced in 6 day old (P6) White Leghorn cockerels by diffusers over the right eyes (treated, “T”) leaving the left eyes uncovered as controls (C). We injected intravitreally 20 mL of 20 mM MFA in dH2O, or dH2O alone, on P7, P9, and P11. On P12 we measured refractive error, axial length, equatorial length, and eye weight. Treatment effects were expressed as interocular differences (T-C; one-way ANOVA, Tukey post-hoc). The role of cell-cell coupling in light-adaptation in retinal circuitry was assessed by the optokinetic response, using OptoMotry®, before and after injection of 20 mM MFA (as above). Mean intensities were in the low to intermediate photopic range (-0.7 to 2.0 log cd/m2). Results: In dH2O controls, goggles induced a myopic shift in refractive error (-9 ± 3D, mean ± SD) and excessive axial length (0.9 ± 0.3mm) [T-C]. MFA significantly reduced the induced increases in refractive error (0 ± 2D; p<0.001) and axial length (0.0 ± 0.3mm, p<0.001) [T-C]. Equatorial length and eye weight were not significantly affected by treatment. At the highest luminance, MFA increased CS at medium-high spatial frequencies (SFs) (SF=0.32 cyc/deg, p<0.001; SF=0.5 cyc/deg, p<0.05; SF=0.8 cyc/deg, p<0.01; SF=1.0 cyc/deg, p<0.05, n=8-9, paired t-test), whereas it did not alter CS under dim light (-0.7 log cd/ m2). Conclusions: Intravitreal MFA mimics the actions of increased light intensity, DA, and NO, on form-deprivation myopia and optokinetic contrast sensitivity in chicks. This suggests that uncoupling of gap junctions between retinal neurons may mediate some actions of DA and NO. Commercial Relationships: Michelle Teves, None; Qing Shi, None; William K. Stell, None; Derek Eng, None Support: Alberta Innovates - Health Solutions (AIHS) Summer Student Award (MT); Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC; Canada) Discovery Grant (WKS) and Undergraduate Student Research Award (DE); Foundation Fighting Blindness (FFB; Canada) EYEGEYE Research Training Fund (WKS) Program Number: 3037 Presentation Time: 11:30 AM–11:45 AM Differential gene expression in tree shrew retina compared with retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) in response to six hours of minus-lens wear Li He, Michael R. Frost, Thomas T. Norton. Department of Vision Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL. Purpose: Extensive evidence suggests local regulation of ocular growth. The retina initiates signals that regulate this growth and RPE is an important transmitter/translator of those signals. We examined and compared early gene expression patterns in the retina vs. RPE from eyes of the same experimental animals responding to short-term minus-lens wear. Methods: Starting 24 days after normal eye opening, a group of seven tree shrews wore a monocular −5 D lens for six hours to initiate increased axial elongation and the development of lensinduced myopia. The untreated contralateral eye served as a control. Quantitative real-time PCR was used to measure gene expression in retina and RPE tissues separately. Forty-four genes of interest were chosen based on the literature and preliminary studies in this lab. Results: RNA yields were typically around 20 mg from the retina and 2 mg from the RPE. After six hours of minus-lens wear, significant differential mRNA expression changes (treated vs. control) were found for four genes in the retina: BMP2, CTGF, and EGR1 were down-regulated, whilst SST was up-regulated. In the RPE, eleven genes showed significant differential expression: GJA1, IGF2R, and LRP2 were up-regulated, whilst APOE, DRD1, NOS1, OPN4, PENK, SLC18A2, SSTR2, and VIP were down-regulated. No gene was differentially expressed in both tissues. These relatively small expression changes, typically <2-fold, are induced prior to measurable changes in refraction or axial length. Conclusions: Six hours of minus-lens wear is sufficient to produce differential gene expression in tree shrew retina and in RPE. The pattern of gene expression differs between the two, suggesting that emmetropization-related signaling is transformed as it moves from retina to RPE. Expression changes in some of these genes have been reported in chick retina/RPE, analyzed together, after 6 hours of minus-lens wear (Stone et al. IOVS 2011; 52:5765-5777). Our tree shrew results suggest that some of these changes occur in ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology retina and some in RPE, suggesting that each ‘compartment’ in the emmetropization signaling cascade should be analyzed separately. Commercial Relationships: Li He, None; Michael R. Frost, None; Thomas T. Norton, None Support: NIH Grants EY005922 and EY003039 (P30) Program Number: 3038 Presentation Time: 11:45 AM–12:00 PM C57BL/6 mouse eyes treated by dopamine D1 receptor agonist and antagonist during form deprivation: an opposite effect on axial length and refractive development Xiangtian Zhou, Weiwei Xiong, Furong Huang, JInglei Yang, Jia Qu. School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical College, Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China. Purpose: Dopaminergic activities in the eye have been shown to modulate development of form deprivation myopia (FDM). However, the mechanism of dopamine receptors involved in FDM is complex. In this study, we investigated effects of dopamine D1 receptor (DRD1) on the development of refraction and axial components of the eyes treated with form deprivation using selective DRD1 agonist and antagonist. Methods: Four-week-old C57BL/6 mice (n=245) raised in normal visual environments or form deprivation received daily intraperitoneal injection of either SKF38393 (DRD1 agonist, n=121) or SCH39166 (DRD1 antagonist, n=124) for four weeks. Each of the groups was divided into 4 sub-groups including control, vehicle and drug treatments with two different dosages. The refraction, corneal radius of curvature and axial components of the eye were measured in all animals prior to and after the treatments. Results: After four weeks of treatment, eyes treated with SKF38393 showed a dose dependent inhibition to the development of FDM with a slower increase in vitreous chamber depth and axial length compared to the vehicle group. In contrast, SCH39166-treated animals showed a dose dependent promotion of FDM with a more rapid increase in vitreous chamber depth and axial length compared to the vehicle group. No significant differences in corneal radius of curvature, anterior chamber depth or lens thickness among the different groups were found during the experimental period. The refraction and axial components of the eyes raised in normal visual environments were not affected neither by SKF38393 nor SCH39166. Conclusions: DRD1 agonist and antagonist exert opposite effects on refractive development and ocular growth during form deprivation. An activation of DRD1 can inhibit the development of FDM in C57BL/6 mice. Commercial Relationships: Xiangtian Zhou, None; Weiwei Xiong, None; Furong Huang, None; JInglei Yang, None; Jia Qu, None Support: 973 program: 2011CB504602; NSFC:81371047 Program Number: 3039 Presentation Time: 12:00 PM–12:15 PM Outdoor Exposure Does Not Inhibit Experimental Myopia Richard A. Stone1, Yuval Cohen1, Alice M. McGlinn1, Sherrill Davison2, Susan Casavant2, Jiayan Huang1, Tejvir S. Khurana3, Machelle T. Pardue4, 5, P M. Iuvone4. 1Ophthalmology, Univ of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA; 2Laboratory of Avian Medicine and Pathology, New Bolton Center, Kennett Square, PA; 3Physiology, Univ of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelph1a, PA; 4Ophthalmology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA; 5Rehab R&D Center of Excellence, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Atlanta, GA. Purpose: Rearing chicks and mammals under high-intensity laboratory lighting inhibits form-deprivation myopia, and it has been proposed that increasing outdoor exposure of children might favorably influence clinical myopia. We assessed the effects of “realworld” outdoor exposures on goggle-induced myopia in chicks. Methods: Two cohorts of white Leghorn chicks, after placement of a uniocular translucent goggle at 5 or 9 days of age, were reared outdoors in a rural setting during daylight hours to the extent permitted by weather; they were not exposed to electric lighting. Two control cohorts were reared under incandescent lighting (500 lux) without outdoor lighting exposure, with light cycle durations matched to sunrise-sunset times of the outdoor chicks. Retinal dopamine/DOPAC (HPLC with electrochemical detection) and ocular refractions/dimensions (refractometry, ultrasound) were measured after 10 or 11 days. Analysis used paired t-test or one-way ANOVA. Results: Non-goggled eyes had some 2.7 diopters (D) of hyperopia in all cohorts. The cohorts of goggled eyes averaged 12-23 D of myopia relative to control eyes, with no evidence that outdoor rearing lessened the myopic response. In fact, the myopic response was exaggerated in goggled eyes of the older outdoor vs. indoor cohort (-23 vs. -13 D; P<0.001). Similarly, the vitreous chambers and axial lengths were elongated in goggled eyes relative to controls, also with no evidence that outdoor rearing attenuated the myopic response (P>0.05, all between-cohort comparisons). In the younger cohort, retinal dopamine or DOPAC (pg/mg protein) in non-goggled eyes and the reductions in contralateral goggled eyes (dopamine ~15%; DOPAC ~48%) were similar between indoor and outdoor reared chicks (P>0.4, all between-cohort comparisons). Conclusions: Contrary to current hypotheses, outdoor exposure does not reproduce the anti-myopia effects of increasing artificial lighting intensity in the lab, at least in chicks. The outdoor environment has much variability in richness of scene and chromaticity, along with major shifts in illumination from movement/density of clouds, individual movement into and out of shady areas, and direction of gaze. All these features were inherent to our study. While some element of outdoor and/or lighting exposure may favorably affect refractive development, our results point to a level of complexity that is not being adequately considered in laboratory or clinical investigations. Commercial Relationships: Richard A. Stone, None; Yuval Cohen, None; Alice M. McGlinn, None; Sherrill Davison, None; Susan Casavant, None; Jiayan Huang, None; Tejvir S. Khurana, None; Machelle T. Pardue, None; P M. Iuvone, None Support: NIH R01 EY022342 (RAS), NIH P30 EY001583 (Penn), NIH R01 EY016435 (MTP), NIH R01 EY004864 (PMI), P30 EY006360 (PMI), Mackall Trust (RAS), RPB (RAS, PMI). Program Number: 3040 Presentation Time: 12:15 PM–12:30 PM Influence of Oral 7-Methylxanthine on Lens-induced and Form Deprivation Myopia in Chickens Kai Wang1, 2, Diane Nava2, Klaus Trier3, Christine Wildsoet2. 1 Ophthalmology Department, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing, China; 2Wildsoet Lab, School of Optometry, University of California, Berkeley, Albany, CA; 3Trier Research Laboratories, Hellerup, Denmark. Purpose: 7-methylxanthine (7-MX), a non-selective adenosine antagonist, is approved as an anti-myopia oral medication in Denmark. To learn more about its mechanisms, this study examined its ability to inhibit lens-induced (LIM) and form deprivation myopia (FDM) in young chickens. Methods: Forty-five young White-Leghorn chickens were divided into four groups, groups 1 and 2 being assigned -10 D lenses (n=10 each), and groups 3 and 4, white diffusers (n=12 & 13 resp.). All optical treatments were monocular, applied to left eyes, starting eight days after hatching, and extending for 10 days. From the beginning ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology of the treatment period, groups 2 and 4 received at 9 am and 3 pm each day, two doses of oral 7-MX (30 mg/kg, samples provided by K Trier). Sterile distilled water was used as the diluent, with xanthangum added to ensure uniform suspension of 7-MX. Control groups (1 and 3) received the xanthan-gum solution without 7-MX, with the dosing schedule as per 7-MX. Baseline refractive errors and axial ocular dimensions were measured before treatments, using static retinoscopy and high frequency A-scan ultrasonography respectively, and measurements were repeated every other day thereafter. Results: 7-MX had a small inhibitory effect on LIM but no effect on FDM, as reflected in the refractions recorded at the end (LIM: -6.43 ± 1.30 D, 7-MX versus control, -8.30 ± 1.53 D; FDM: -10.19 ± 7.89 D, 7-MX versus -10.77 ± 7.20 D, control)(Figure 1). For LIM groups, the interocular difference in optical length was smaller in the 7-MX group. And final intergroup difference (0.12 mm) was mainly of a product of differences in anterior chamber depth (0.11 mm). Both groups showing similar interocular differences in other key ocular parameters (vitreous chamber depth and lens thickness). No significant intergroup differences in these parameters were noted for the FDM groups. Conclusions: For the dose tested, 7-MX showed only a weak inhibitory effect against LIM and no effect against FDM in the chicken. This result adds weight to evidence suggesting a scleral site of action for the anti-myopia effect of 7-MX, because unlike mammalian and primate eyes, avian eyes have an additional cartilage layer, which largely determines eye size. Figure 1. Interocular changes in mean spherical equivalent refractive error (SER), normalized to baseline values, for the lens-wearing group (LIM, A) and form deprived groups (FDM, B). Commercial Relationships: Kai Wang, None; Diane Nava, None; Klaus Trier, None; Christine Wildsoet, None Support: NIH/NEI EY12392 Program Number: 3041 Presentation Time: 12:30 PM–12:45 PM Changing Material Properties of the Tree Shrew Sclera during Minus Lens Compensation and Recovery Rafael Grytz1, John T. Siegwart2, Thomas T. Norton2. 1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL; 2Department of Vision Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL. Purpose: To estimate two material properties (collagen fibril crimp angle and elastic modulus) of the remodeling tree shrew sclera during monocular -5 D lens wear and recovery. Methods: Tensile tests were performed on 3-mm wide scleral strips (0-50 g, 30 sec) obtained from juvenile tree shrews exposed to three different visual conditions: (i) normal development (24, 28, and 35 days of visual experience; n = 2, 3, and 3, respectively); (ii) monocular -5 D lens wear to induce axial elongation and myopia (1, ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology 2, 4, and 11 days of lens wear; n = 5 per group); and (iii) recovery from the myopia (1, 2, 4, and 10 days of recovery with no lens after 11 days of lens wear; n = 3 per group). Collagen fibrils are crimped in the unloaded sclera and uncrimp as the tissue stiffens under load. Inverse numerical analyses were performed to estimate the collagen fibril crimp angle (unloaded) and elastic modulus using a microstructure-based constitutive model. Results: The fitted crimp angle was significantly higher in the treated eye vs. control eye after 2 days and peaked after 4 days of -5 D lens wear (p < 0.05). This difference was reduced but remained significantly higher after 11 days. In contrast, the difference in crimp angle rapidly decreased after the lens was removed and was not significant after 1 day of recovery. A rapid increase in the elastic modulus (up to 2-3 fold) was seen in both eyes (control and treated) after starting or stopping the -5 D lens wear. The increase was highly transient during lens wear, but more sustained during recovery. Compared to normally developing eyes, this stiffening effect was significant during the first 2 days of monocular lens wear in both eyes, while it remained significant up to day 4 and 10 of recovery in the treated and control eye, respectively. Conclusions: The estimated change in the crimp angle of scleral collagen fibrils is temporally associated with the change in axial elongation rate during myopia development and recovery. This finding suggests that axial elongation may be controlled by a remodeling mechanism that modulates the collagen fibril crimp as well as creep rate (Siegwart and Norton, Vision Res. 1999;39:387407). The binocular changes in scleral stiffness during monocular lens treatment and recovery are not temporally associated with the change in axial elongation, indicating that scleral stiffening may not be causally related to axial elongation in myopia. Commercial Relationships: Rafael Grytz, None; John T. Siegwart, None; Thomas T. Norton, None Support: NIH grants R01 EY005922, EY003909 (P30); EyeSight Foundation of Alabama; Research to Prevent Blindness 336 Non-melanoma intraocular lesions: Retinoblastoma and beyond Tuesday, May 06, 2014 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Exhibit/Poster Hall SA Poster Session Program #/Board # Range: 3068–3102/A0001–A0035 Organizing Section: Anatomy/Pathology Contributing Section(s): Retinal Cell Biology, Retina Program Number: 3068 Poster Board Number: A0001 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Comparative Analysis Of ABCG2+ Stem-Like Retinoblastoma Cells And Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells As Three-Dimensional Aggregates Gail M. Seigel1, 2, Linda Cassidy1, Robert Diaz3, Ruby Y. Tsai3. 1 Center for Hearing and Deafness, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY; 2SUNY Eye Institute, Buffalo, NY; 3Applied StemCell, Inc., Menlo Park, CA. Purpose: Retinoblastoma (RB), an intraocular malignancy of early childhood, expresses a number of stem cell markers including ABCG2. In this study, we compared ABCG2+ and ABCG2- RB cells with induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived embryoid ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology bodies to assess their potential for pluripotency as three-dimensional aggregates. We tested the hypothesis that both iPSC-derived embryoid bodies and ABCG2+ cells would both preferentially exhibit pluripotent stem cell markers and less mature retinal marker expression as compared with ABCG2- cells. Methods: Immunomagnetic enrichment of WERI-RB27 and Y79 retinoblastoma cells created populations that were ABCG2+ or ABCG2-. Enriched ABCG2+ and ABCG2- populations were examined as aggregates in three-dimensional culture and compared with embryoid bodies formed by iPSCs. Resulting cell aggregates were assessed by immunohistochemistry for a variety of stem cell and mature markers. Results: ABCG2+ and ABCG2- cells formed aggregates that differed morphologically from iPSC-derived embryoid bodies. Immunostaining demonstrated that both ABCG2+ and ABCG2cell aggregates were immunoreactive to tubulin III (ectoderm), but immunonegative for smooth muscle actin (mesoderm) and alpha-feto protein (endoderm). However, ABCG2+ aggregates exhibited greater immunoreactivity to stem cell markers (ABCG2, ALDH1A1 and CD164), but less immunoreactivity to mature markers (MAP-2 and S-Antigen) as compared with ABCG2- RB cells. In contrast, iPSCinduced embryoid bodies contained cells that were immunoreactive for primitive markers including Nestin, PAX6, CD164 and ALDH1A1. Conclusions: Aggregate cultures of enriched ABCG2+ RB cells possess a higher degree of stem-like features as compared with ABCG2- RB cells. Both populations express Tubulin III, a marker of embryonic ectoderm, but neither alpha feto-protein (endoderm) nor smooth muscle actin (mesoderm) as compared with pluripotent iPSCderived embryoid bodies. This suggests a restriction to ectodermal lineage for both ABCG2+ and ABCG2- RB cells. These results may have implications for RB tumor development, as well as the potential to lead to novel therapeutic approaches for tumor eradication in RB. WERI-RB27 retinoblastoma cell aggregate with immunoreactivity to ABCG2 (red) and CD164 (green). DAPI (blue) labels nuclei. Commercial Relationships: Gail M. Seigel, Applied StemCell, Inc. (R); Linda Cassidy, None; Robert Diaz, Applied StemCell, Inc. (E); Ruby Y. Tsai, Applied StemCell, Inc. (E) Support: This work was supported by the Cornell Center on the Microenvironment & Metastasis through Award Number U54CA143876 from the National Cancer Institute and NYSTEM C026412. Program Number: 3069 Poster Board Number: A0002 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Optical Coherence Tomography Enables Imaging of Retinoblastoma Tumor Initiation in the TAg-RB Mouse Model Andrea Wenzel1, 2, Mehdi Shadmand1, 2, Timothy W. Corson1, 2. 1 Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN; 2Ophthalmology, Indiana Univ School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN. Purpose: Retinoblastoma is the most common intraocular malignancy in children. Although significant advances in treatment have decreased mortality in recent years, there continues to be a high morbidity associated with these therapies and therefore a pressing need for new therapeutic options. Transgenic mouse models are popular for testing new therapeutics as well as studying the pathophysiology of retinoblastoma. The TAg-RB model has the closest molecular and histological resemblance to human retinoblastoma tumors; these mice inactivate pRB by retinal-specific expression of the Simian Virus 40 T-antigens. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has previously been used to characterize TAg-RB tumors in 10-13 week-old mice. Here, we evaluated whether OCT imaging could be used to document tumor growth in the TAg-RB model at the earliest stages of tumor development. Methods: The Micron III rodent imaging system was used to obtain fundus photographs and OCT images of both eyes of TAg-RB mice regularly from 2 to 20 weeks of age to document tumor development. Tumor morphology was confirmed by histological analysis. Results: Light-colored, intraretinal tumors, preferentially in the periphery, were readily seen by funduscopy in animals ≥8 weeks of age. By OCT, hyperreflective tumor masses arising in the inner nuclear layer were evident as early as five weeks, even when no pathology was yet evident by funduscopy. These masses grew into discrete, discoid tumors that developed more irregular morphology over time, eventually merging and displacing the inner retinal layers into the vitreous. Conclusions: OCT is a novel, non-invasive imaging modality for tracking early TAg-RB tumor growth in vivo. Using OCT, we were able to characterize tumor growth as early as 5 weeks, corresponding to the earliest stages at which tumors are histologically evident, and before they are evident by funduscopy. Tracking tumor growth from its very earliest stages will allow better analysis of the efficacy of novel therapeutics tested in this powerful mouse model. Commercial Relationships: Andrea Wenzel, None; Mehdi Shadmand, None; Timothy W. Corson, Phoenix Research Labs (F) Support: Phoenix Research Labs, ACSIRG, NIH/NCATS TR000163 Program Number: 3070 Poster Board Number: A0003 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Lymphocytic microparticles suppress growth of retinoblastoma Qian Qiu, Chun Yang, Houda Tahiri, Carmen Gagnon, Pierre Hardy. Research Center of CHU Sainte-Justine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada. Purpose: Retinoblastoma (Rb) is an aggressive childhood cancer of the developing retina that is associated with epigenetic deregulation of several cancer pathways. In addition to the significantly upregulation of the proto-oncogene spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK), the angiogenic potential of Rb correlates with invasive growth and metastasis. Lymphocyte-derived microparticles (LMPs) possess strong antiangiogenic effect against pathological ocular angiogenesis and potent inhibitory effect on cell viability. This study is designed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the anti-Rb effect of LMPs. Methods: LMPs were produced from human T cell lymphoblastlike cell line cells (CEM T cells) after 0.5 μg/mL actinomycin D stimulation and isolated LMPs were characterized with annexin ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology V staining and gated using 1.0 mM beads. Rb cell line (Y-79) and primary cultured Rb cells (isolated from primary site intraocular retinoblastoma of Rb patients) were subjected to WST-1, cellular senescent, apoptotic assay and FACS cell cycle analysis after treated with LMPs. Quantitative RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry and Western blot were performed to detect interest gene expression and protein levels in LMPs and in Rb cells. Results: LMPs significantly reduced Rb cell viability in a dosedependent manner. LMPs in a concentration of 10mg/ml significantly induced Rb cell-cycle arrest at G0/G1 phase with associated increases of the senescence-associated β-galactosidase activity. LMPs in higher concentrations (≥20mg/ml) induced cell death (46% apoptotic cells in LMPs-treated primary cultured Rb cells compared to 14% in control cells). LMPs treatment has a significant suppression effect on the expression of SYK in primary Rb cells. Moreover, LMPs contain a considerable amount of p21(cip1), a cell cycle inhibitor. Inhibition of p21(cip1) significant induced pro-apoptotic effect of LMPs. Conclusions: LMPs dose-dependently induced Rb cell senescence or apoptosis; the mechanism favouring this effect is directly mediated by p21(cip1) pathway. These data may open unexpected avenues for the development of novel therapeutic strategies that are particularly useful and relevant for the treatment of Rb cancer. Commercial Relationships: Qian Qiu, None; Chun Yang, None; Houda Tahiri, None; Carmen Gagnon, None; Pierre Hardy, None Support: FRSQ Program Number: 3071 Poster Board Number: A0004 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Topotecan pharmacokinetics and safety after super-selective ophthalmic artery infusion concomitant to melphalan in children with retinoblastoma Paula J. Taich1, Alejandro Ceciliano2, Emiliano Buitrago1, Francisco Villasante2, Claudia Sampor1, Gabriel Mato1, Guillermo L. Chantada1, Paula Schaiquevich1. 1Hospital de Pediatria JP Garrahan, Buenos Aires, Argentina; 2Maternidad Suizo Argentina, Argentina, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Purpose: To characterize topotecan pharmacokinetics and safety after super-selective ophthalmic artery infusion (SSOAI) in combination with melphalan in children with retinoblastoma. Methods: Topotecan SSOAI concomitant to melphalan was offered to children with retinoblastoma between October 2011 and July 2013. The SSOAI therapy was performed according to published guidelines. Consenting patients received SSOAI topotecan (0.5-1 mg) concomitant to melphalan (3-7 mg) in unilateral administration. Blood samples were collected from a peripheral access before starting and at the end of the infusion of each drug and 0.5, 1, 2 and 3 h after finishing SSOAI. Topotecan was quantified by HPLC and the pharmacokinetics was characterized using a nonlinear mixed effects modeling approach. After each chemotherapy cycle, hematological toxicities were graded according to international criteria. Patients received both drugs at no predetermined order (sequence effect). Results: A total of 21 patients received SSOAI topotecan concomitant to melphalan in 39 cycles. The median (range) age and weight at the first cycle was 1.6 years (0.75-7.4) and 11.6kg (7.930), respectively. Topotecan pharmacokinetics was best described by a 2-compartment model with an additive residual error model according to the limit of quantitation (5ng/ml). Topotecan mean (s.e) pharmacokinetic parameters calculated included clearance: 0.67 L/h/ kg (0.07); volume of distribution of the central compartment: 0.53 L/ kg (0.09), intercompartmental clearance: 2.86 L/h/kg (0.34); volume of distribution of the peripheral compartment: 0.72 L/kg (0.07) and a median (range) systemic exposure corrected by dose of (AUC/D): 95.5 (ng*h/ml)/mg (34.5-237.9). Adverse events included 5 grade 3/4 neutropenia with an incidence of 12.8 % of myelosupression. The sequence of drug administration was not statistically associated with topotecan clearance (p>0.05). Conclusions: The present data are in agreement with topotecan pharmacokinetics after endovenous administration previously reported in children. Topotecan systemic exposure was low and is in correspondence with the low incidence of hematological toxicity (12.8%). Commercial Relationships: Paula J. Taich, None; Alejandro Ceciliano, None; Emiliano Buitrago, None; Francisco Villasante, None; Claudia Sampor, None; Gabriel Mato, None; Guillermo L. Chantada, None; Paula Schaiquevich, None Support: Supported by: Fund for Ophthalmic Knowledge, New York, New York, US; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Cientificas y Tecnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina (grant no.: 11220090100343); Agencia Nacional de Promocion CientificaFONCYT, Buenos Aires, Argentina (PICT Bicentenario no.: 20102271); Hospital JP Garrahan, Buenos Aires, Argentina and Fundacion Natalie D. Flexer de Ayuda al Niño con Cancer, Buenos Aires, Argentina. Program Number: 3072 Poster Board Number: A0005 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Evaluation of the Efficacy of Topotecan Loaded Au-Tethered Liposomes and AU-011 for the Treatment of Retinoblastoma in vitro Kristen Jijelava1, Shin Kang1, Uday Kompella2, Shelley A. Durazo2, Elisabet de los Pinos3, John MacDougall3, Hans E. Grossniklaus1. 1 Ophthalmology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA; 2Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado, Denver, CO; 3 Aura Biosciences, Cambridge, MA. Purpose: The purpose of the study is to test our hypothesis that if WERI-Rb-1 cells are exposed to topotecan, topotecan loaded Autethered DPPC/DPGPTE liposomes treated with near-infrared (NIR) pulsed laser, or AU-011 treated with a light-emitting diode (LED) laser, that the result will be cell death. Methods: WERI-Rb-1 cells were grown to 3-4x10^5 cells/mL and exposed to different concentrations of topotecan (5-20 mg/50 mL) and topotecan loaded Au-tethered DPPC/DPGPTE liposomes (10-50 mg/50 mL). After treatment with topotecan loaded Au-tethered DPPC/ DPGPTE liposomes, the cells were exposed to an 810 nm diode laser (1500 mW, 1000 msec at 50 msec repeat intervals) for 2 minutes. Similarly, WERI-Rb-1 cells were treated with multiple concentrations of AU-011 (Human papillomavirus virus-like particles conjugated with IR700 dye) (0.1-3 nM) and exposed to 16J of light using a LED lamp. Cell viability was determined at multiple time points using a trypan blue viability stain and a hemocytometer. Results: Topotecan at a concentration of 20 mg/50 mL causes 99.7% cell death (p<0.001) by 4 hours. There was no statistically significant difference in cell viability rates at any time point between the 20 mg/50 mL of topotecan loaded Au-tethered DPPC/DPGPTE liposome groups that received NIR pulsed laser therapy as compared to the same group that did not receive laser therapy. The AU-011 at 0.1 nM, 1 nM, and 3 nM concentrations following exposure to 16J with an LED lamp all resulted in a statistically significant (p < 0.05) increases in cell death (83.3-91.7%, 87.5-100%, and 95.0-100% respectively) compared to the control (1.56-8.75% dead cells) at 1, 4, and 24 hours. Conclusions: Topotecan at a concentration of 20 mg/50 mL effectively and rapidly kills WERI-Rb-1 cells in vitro. NIR pulsed laser therapy applied for a clinically relevant duration does not cause the necessary rise in temperature of the gold nanoshells to induce the release of a significant amount of topotecan from the ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology liposomes. However, AU-011 in combination with LED therapy presents a promising novel method to effectively induce cell death of retinoblastoma cells locally without being cytotoxic to cells that do not receive LED exposure. Commercial Relationships: Kristen Jijelava, None; Shin Kang, None; Uday Kompella, None; Shelley A. Durazo, None; Elisabet de los Pinos, Aura Biosciences (E); John MacDougall, Aura Biosciences (E); Hans E. Grossniklaus, None Support: Supported in part by an unrestricted department grant from Research to Prevent Blindness, Inc Program Number: 3073 Poster Board Number: A0006 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Small molecules that selectively inhibit growth of MYCNARB1+/+ retinoblastoma cells Kamakshi Sishtla1, 2, Timothy W. Corson1, 2. 1Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute, Indianapolis, IN; 2Department of Ophthalmology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN. Purpose: Retinoblastoma is the most common pediatric ocular cancer, traditionally thought to be always caused by loss of both alleles of the RB1 tumor suppressor gene. However, recent work showed that amplification of the MYCN oncogene can also spur the development of retinoblastoma in a fraction of unilateral patients with normal RB1 alleles. Here, our aim was to identify small molecules from a library of known bioactive compounds that show selective growth inhibition of a MYCNARB1+/+ retinoblastoma cell line (RB3823) over a MYCNARB1-/- cell line (Y79). Such molecules may be leads for therapy of MYCNARB1+/+ retinoblastoma, and will further elucidate the molecular differences between these two subtypes of retinoblastoma. Methods: Compounds from the LOPAC1280 library were tested to judge their effect at 10 μM on cell proliferation in both Y79 and RB3823 cell lines using Alamar Blue after a 48 hour incubation in 384 well format. Compounds that reduced cell proliferation by at least 40% in one or both cell lines were tested twice more in both cell lines to confirm efficacy. Dose response testing was conducted using compound concentrations ranging from 100 pM to 1 mM in 384 well format. Results: In initial screening, 95 compounds showed cytotoxicity to one or both cell lines. Secondary screening yielded 9 compounds that reduced RB3823 proliferation by at least 40% compared to untreated cells. Confirmatory screening identified 6 of those 9 compounds that reduced RB3823 proliferation by at least twice that of Y79. In dose-response assays of 5 of these compounds, one compound showed reproducibly higher efficacy in RB3823 than Y79. Dimethoxy-naphthoquinone (DMNQ) had a GI50 in RB3823 at least 3 times lower than that for Y79. DMNQ is an oxidizing quinone that is thought to act by depleting cellular reduction potential leading to oxidation of proteins and DNA, causing cell death. Conclusions: Given our findings, potential may exist for selective treatment options for aggressive, MYCN-driven retinoblastoma. DMNQ has not been used in humans, but a DMNQ derivative has previously shown efficacy in a mouse lung carcinoma xenograft. Further characterization of DMNQ’s mode of action in the retinoblastoma context is required, but the door is open to the family of quinones as potential treatment options for MYCNARB1+/+ retinoblastoma. Commercial Relationships: Kamakshi Sishtla, None; Timothy W. Corson, None Support: NIH NCATS TR000163 and TR000006 Program Number: 3074 Poster Board Number: A0007 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Establishment of a new retinoblastoma mouse model by intravitreal injection of human retinoblastoma Y79 cells into nude mice eyes – Comparison of SLO/OCT vs. histological follow up Alexander V. Tschulakow1, Hans-Peter Rodemann2, Ulrich Schraermeyer1, 3, Sylvie Julien1, 3. 1section of experimental vitreoretinal surgery, institute for ophtalmic research, Tuebingen, Germany; 2Department of Radiation Oncology, Tuebingen, Germany; 3 STZ OcuTox, Preclinical Drug Assessment, Hechingen, Germany. Purpose: Retinoblastoma is the most frequent ocular tumor in children and if let untreated, can cause death. The aim of this study was to create a novel xenograft-nude mouse-model, which closely resembles the situation in the patients and to investigate the development and spread of the tumor by using SLO/OCT as well as histology methods. Methods: Human retinoblastoma Y79 cells were intravitreally injected in both eyes of immune-deficient nude mice. The mice were closely monitored for any phenotype changes during the whole experiment. The frequency of retinoblastoma incidence and growth velocity were analysed 3, 6, 9 and 12 weeks after cell injection. The tumor was characterized in vivo by SLO/OCT as well as ex vivo by electron microscopy and hematoxylin eosin (HE) staining. Moreover, potentially occurring metastases were investigated via histological screening of internal organs. Results: Already three weeks post-injection, animals developed a retinoblastoma. After five weeks, the eyes began to swell in individual animals and they showed a similar phenotype to that of untreated retinoblastoma patients. After 12 weeks, 67.5% of all analyzed eyes (29 of 42) presented a retinoblastoma. The SLO/OCT analysis could only be performed in eyes with a tumor at an early stage (till week three). In all cases in which SLO/OCT- analysis was possible, the results were in accordance with the histological analysis (Fig 1a-c). The tumors were found in the vitreous body and in some ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology cases also within the retina and the subretinal space. In only one mouse, brain metastases were observed. Conclusions: Our retinoblastoma mouse model mimics the situation observed in patients. At early stages, the SLO/OCT analysis correlated with the histology findings. Therefore SLO/OCT can be used for the detection of tumors and might be used for monitoring the success of potential therapy approaches. When the tumors were too large, only histological investigations were possible. Figure 1: Three weeks after intravitreal injection of Y79 cells in nude mice eyes the cells formed a tumor (red arrow), which broke through the retina (red circle). a) SLO image, b) OCT image and c) the corresponding HE-stained slide (X100). Commercial Relationships: Alexander V. Tschulakow, None; Hans-Peter Rodemann, None; Ulrich Schraermeyer, None; Sylvie Julien, None Support: Deutsche Kinderkrebsstiftung 2012.08 Program Number: 3075 Poster Board Number: A0008 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Role of HMG protein in Primary Retinoblastoma Mithalesh Singh1, Seema Kashyap1, Lata Singh1, Neelam Pushker2, Seema Sen1, Anjana Sharma3, Bhavna Chawla2. 1Ocular Pathology, Dr R. P. Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical sciences, New Delhi, India; 2Ophthalmology, Dr R. P. Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical sciences, New Delhi, India; 3Ocular Microbiology, Dr R. P. Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical sciences, New Delhi, India. Purpose: Retinoblastoma is a malignant tumor composed of embryonic tumor cells from retinoblasts of neuroepithelial origin. High mobility group proteins (HMG) are the member of non histone nuclear factors associated with cell proliferation, differentiation and neoplastic transformation. High mobility group (HMG) proteins is a newly recognized protein regulating cancer cell tumorigenesis, expansion and invasion. However, the role of HMGB1 is still unclear in retinoblastoma. Methods: Prospective analysis of 70 primary enucleated retinoblastoma cases over a period of one year. Expression of HMGB1 was performed by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in formalin fixed retinoblastoma specimens and their results were confirmed by western blotting. mRNA expression was performed by semiquantitative Reverse Transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR). Results: A total of 70 eyes were taken of which 10(14.28%) eyes had bilateral involvement. Ages ranged from 7months to 8years. 56 (80%) cases were reported as poorly differentiated tumors whereas 46(65.71%) and 14(20%) cases had calcification and necrosis respectively. Histopathologically, 16(22.85%) had massive choroid invasion, 13(18.57%) had optic nerve invasion, 6 cases each had scleral and ciliary body invasion. Strong expression of HMGB1 were seen in 41/70(58.57%) cases. mRNA expression was seen in 36 cases (51.4%) by RT-PCR. Expression of HMGB1 was statistically significant with poor differentiation (p=0.0436) and optic nerve invasion (p=0.0473). Conclusions: Overexpression of HMGB1 is seen more in poorly differentiated tumors and those with, histopathological high risk factors. HMGB1 could serve as a poor prognostic marker in retinoblastoma. Better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying HMGB1 function could yield novel therapeutic approaches to anti-cancer strategies. Commercial Relationships: Mithalesh Singh, None; Seema Kashyap, None; Lata Singh, None; Neelam Pushker, None; Seema Sen, None; Anjana Sharma, None; Bhavna Chawla, None Program Number: 3076 Poster Board Number: A0009 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal esterase L1 (UCHL1) expression is reduced in retinoblastoma tumor samples Patricia Sanchez-Diaz1, 2, Melanie Kane1, Erik P. Cummings1, Judy C. Chang2, Gail E. Tomlinson2, 3, Jaclyn Y. Hung2, 3. 1Rosenberg School of Optometry, University of the Incarnate Word, San Antonio, TX; 2 Greehey Children’s Cancer Research Institute, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX; 3Pediatrics, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX. Purpose: Ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal esterase L1 (UCHL1) is a deubiquitinase enzyme within the ubiquitin proteasome system that seems to either promote or to block cancer progression in a context dependent manner. UCHL1 is highly expressed in nervous tissue including retina, but there is no data regarding UCHL1 expression or function in retinoblastoma. We used tissue arrays to measure UCHL1 protein expression in human retinoblastoma tumor samples and compared it to normal retina and to other ocular tissues. Methods: Retinoblastoma tissue arrays were purchased from USBiomax, Inc. Each tissue contained 12 cores of normal ocular tissue (including 4 retinal), and 28 retinoblastoma cores. UCHL1 expression was measured by immunohistochemistry using a rabbit polyclonal antibody against UCHL1 (Abcam), HRP-polymer (TexGen) and DAB (Sigma-Aldrich) as per manufacturer’s guidelines. Two independent observers ranked the area of the tissue stained (S) from 0-100 (0=no staining; 100=all tumor stained) and the intensity of the staining (I) from 0-3 (0=weak; 3= very strong). The quick-score method (Q=SxI) was used to compare UCHL1 expression across the tissue array. T-test analyses were used to determine statistically significant differences in UCHL1 levels (p<0.05). Results: Low Q-scores (0-60) were obtained for 75% of the nonretinal ocular tissues and for 53% of the tumor samples. Intermediate Q-scores (100<Q<200) were obtained for 25% of the non-retinal ocular tissues and for 32% of the retinoblastoma samples. High Q-scores (Q>200) were obtained for all retinal samples and for 11% of the retinoblastomas. The high levels of UCHL1 detected in retinal samples were statistically significant compared both to non-retinal ocular tissues (p=0.00043) and to retinoblastomas (p=0.004). The observed staining pattern in normal retinal was in agreement with previous reports and concentrated in neuroretinal cells while UCHL1 expression in retinoblastoma seemed to cluster in regions of high mitotic index known as Flexner–Wintersteiner rosettes. Conclusions: Our data was consistent with a reduced UCHL1 expression in retinoblastoma compared to normal retina. Ongoing experiments using retinoblastoma cell lines as model system will enable us to elucidate potential roles for UCHL1 in retinoblastoma pathogenesis and may also help us find novel molecular targets for retinoblastoma. Commercial Relationships: Patricia Sanchez-Diaz, None; Melanie Kane, None; Erik P. Cummings, None; Judy C. Chang, None; Gail E. Tomlinson, None; Jaclyn Y. Hung, None ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 3077 Poster Board Number: A0010 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Analysis of Mitochondrial DNA Mutations and Altered Protein Expression in Human Retinoblastoma Lata Singh1, Seema Kashyap1, Neeru Saini2, Neelam Pushker3, Seema Sen1, Tapas C. Nag4, Anjana Sharma5, Sameer Bakhshi6, Bhavna Chawla3, Jasbir Kaur7. 1Ocular Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India; 2Functional Genomics Unit, Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology, New Delhi, India; 3 Ophthalmology, Dr. R. P. Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India; 4Anatomy, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India; 5Ocular Microbiology, Dr. R. P. Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India; 6Medical Oncology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India; 7Ocular Biochemistry, Dr. R. P. Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India. Purpose: Mitochondria are critical for cellular function in cancer and play an important role in cell differentiation and survival. Displacement loop (D-loop) is a control site for expression of the mitochondrial genome. Mutations in D-loop region may alter the rate of mtDNA transcription and replication. Genetic variability in D-loop region has been suggested to affect the function of mitochondrial complexes and could contribute to tumor initia tion. The purpose of this study was to determine if mutations in the mitochondrial D-loop region could cause or effect the expression of mitochondrial complex (s) and the morphological changes of mitochondria in human primary retinoblastoma tissues. Methods: In the present study, the entire D-loop region of mtDNA was amplified in two overlapping polymerase chain reaction fragments (Nested-PCR) and variations were evaluated in 24 primary retinoblastoma patients by direct DNA sequencing methods. Morphology of mitochondria was studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Expression of mitochondrial complex I was performed in all the 24 cases by immunohistochemistry and then validated by western blotting on representative cases. Results: A total of 301 mutations were observed at 170 positions in the mitochondrial D-Loop region. The most common variations were 73A-G (83.3%), 263A-G (70.8%) and 16223C-T (66.6%) followed by 30 novel mutations. Loss of mitochondrial complex I was seen in 19/24 (79.16%) cases by immunohistochemistry. Western blotting was performed to confirm the immunoreactivity results. Electron microscopy showed numerous degenerated and swollen mitochondria in tumor cells. On statistical analysis, the expression of mitochondrial complex I correlated significantly with poorly differentiated retinoblastoma and tumor invasion. Conclusions: This is the first study to show a high frequency in mt D-loop variations and deficiency of mitochondrial complex I in retinoblastoma tumor. Electron microscopy revealed morphological changes in mitochondria which may be due to damage in mtDNA genome. D-loop variations could probably cause alteration in mitochondrial complex (s) which is still being investigated. Exploring mtDNA alterations might be helpful for developing biomarkers in the management of retinoblastoma patients. Commercial Relationships: Lata Singh, None; Seema Kashyap, None; Neeru Saini, None; Neelam Pushker, None; Seema Sen, None; Tapas C. Nag, None; Anjana Sharma, None; Sameer Bakhshi, None; Bhavna Chawla, None; Jasbir Kaur, None Program Number: 3078 Poster Board Number: A0011 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Review of anatomopathological features and high-risk factors in 45 primary enucleated eyes with retinoblastoma Alexandre Azevedo, Luiz Teixeira, Juliana Soares, Carla D. Macedo. UNIFESP, Sao Paulo, Brazil. Purpose: To evaluate the prevalence of high-risk factors in primary enucleated eyes with retinoblastoma diagnostic at UNIFESP/GRAAC from 2007 to 2013 Methods: Observational, retrospective study of consecutive pacients submbitted to primary enucleation at UNIFESP/GRAAC with anatomopathological diagnostic of Retiblastoma from 2007 to 2013 . The histopathological features of the enucleated specimen were reviewed after obtaining approval from the institutional review board . High-risk histopathologic features for metastatic disease were defined as the presence of 1 or more of the following : an área of massive posterior uveal invasion >or = 3 mm, post-laminar optic nerve invasion, or a combination of any nonmassive choroidal invasion with any degree of nonretrolaminar optic nerve invasion .The association between the presence of high-risk histopathological features and intraocular grouping (ICRB-international classification of retinoblastoma), laterality, and tumor differentiation was analyzed with fisher’s exact test . Results: Of 45 eyes, 5 (11.1%) were classified as group D and 40 as E (ICRB). High-risk retinoblastoma were identified in 26 eyes (57.7%), all in Group E. Sample ages ranged from 0,5 to 85 months, median 24 months . There were choroid massive invasion in 19 eyes (42.2%), post-laminar invasion in 11(24.4%), and the combination of any nonmassive choroidal invasion with any degree of nonretrolaminar optic nerve invasion in 2 (4.4%). The only statistically significant association was between presence of high-risk factor and IRCB grouping (P=0.0095). Neither tumor differentiation or lateralitty showed statistically significant association with highrisk factors . Conclusions: About half of the primary enucleated patients in our service needed adjuvant systemic chemotherapy to prevent metastatic disease. The ICRB had strong association predicting high-risk histopathologic features of retinoblastoma. Neither tumor differentiation or lateralitty showed statistically significant association with high-risk factors . Commercial Relationships: Alexandre Azevedo, None; Luiz Teixeira, None; Juliana Soares, None; Carla D. Macedo, None Program Number: 3079 Poster Board Number: A0012 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Histopathologic Grading of Anaplasia for Retinoblastoma Pia R. Mendoza1, G B. Hubbard1, Jill R. Wells1, Charles S. Specht2, Qing Zhang1, Hans E. Grossniklaus1. 1Ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; 2Pathology, Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA. Purpose: We hypothesize that there are cytologic characteristics of retinoblastoma that may be important for prognostication. Cellular anaplastic change is known to be a significant phenotypic expression of genetic instability and malignant transformation that can be readily recognized under a microscope. The objective of this study is to determine whether the degree of anaplasia correlates with routinely assessed histologic features and clinical outcomes in a series of retinoblastoma patients. Methods: This retrospective study involved the review of demographic, clinical, and pathologic findings from 92 patients who underwent primary enucleation for retinoblastoma. Anaplasia was graded as none, mild, moderate, or severe; defined by increasing ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology nuclear size, number of mitoses, nuclear hyperchromatism, pleomorphism and angularity. Pathologic and clinical data were compared using Kaplan-Meier estimates of event free survival and overall survival. The Fisher’s exact test was used to analyze the association between anaplasia grade and other histologic factors. Results: The distribution of anaplasia grades was as follows: 15 mild (16%), 53 moderate (58%), and 24 severe (26%). Six tumors had retinoblastoma associated with retinocytoma; all retinocytoma components had no anaplasia. Increasing grade of anaplasia was associated with decreased overall survival (p=0.03). There was no statistically significant correlation between anaplasia and event free survival. Histopathologic factors statistically associated with anaplasia were level of differentiation (p<0.001), optic nerve invasion (p=0.005), and choroidal invasion (p=0.02). Conclusions: Anaplasia grading may be a useful adjunct to standard histopathologic criteria in identifying high risk retinoblastoma patients who may need adjuvant therapy. Kaplan-Meier curve showing the association of increasing severity of anaplasia grade with decreased overall survival Commercial Relationships: Pia R. Mendoza, None; G B. Hubbard, None; Jill R. Wells, None; Charles S. Specht, None; Qing Zhang, None; Hans E. Grossniklaus, None Program Number: 3080 Poster Board Number: A0013 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Histopathological Analysis of Cell Division Cycle 25 (CDC25) Phosphatase Protein in Retinoblastoma Seema Kashyap1, Lata Singh1, Neelam Pushker2, Seema Sen1, Anjana Sharma3, Bhavna Chawla2. 1Ocular Pathology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India; 2Ophthalmology, Dr. R. P. Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India INstitute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India; 3Ocular Microbiology, Dr. R. P. Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India. Purpose: Retinoblastoma is the most common childhood intraocular malignant tumor of the developing retina . Cell Division Cycle 25 (CDC25) phosphatase is an essential regulator of the cell cycle machinery, functioning as a positive regulator by activating Cyclin-Dependent Kinases (CDK). CDC25A plays a pivotal role in controlling cell proliferation during development and tumorigenesis. Overexpression of CDC25A is detected in a number of tumors which implies dysregulation in malignant transformation. However, the role of CDC25A in patients with Retinoblastoma is still unknown. Methods: Prospective analyses of 60 primary enucleated retinoblastoma cases over a period of one year (Jan 2011Dec 2012). CDC25A protein expression was investigated by Immunohistochemistry in formalin fixed paraffin embedded sections and then validated by western blotting. Cytoplasmic staining was graded as weak/negative (1+), moderate (2+) and strong (3+). Semi-quantitative analysis for expression of CDC25A mRNA was performed by the Reverse-Transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR). Expression of CDC25A was correlated with tumor differentiation and various histopathological high risk factors. Results: There were total of 45 poorly differentiated retinoblastomas and 15 well differentiated retinoblastomas. Necrosis and calcification was found in 37 (61.6%) and 17 (28.3%) respectively. Massive choroidal invasion, optic nerve invasion and scleral invasion was found in 20/60, 17/60 and 7/60 cases respectively. Immunohistochemistry showed CDC25A expression in total of 38/60 (63.3%) cases. Western blotting was performed to confirm immunoreactivity results on representative cases. mRNA expression was seen in 31/60 (51.6%) cases by RT-PCR. Expression of CDC25A showed statistically significant correlation with poor tumour differentiation and tumor invasion (p<0.05). Conclusions: Our results suggest that increased expression of CDC25A plays an important role in the pathogenesis of retinoblastoma. CDC25A was associated with invasion of ocular coats and poor differentiation. CDC25A expression might be a potential molecular target for novel drug development in tumor biology. Commercial Relationships: Seema Kashyap, None; Lata Singh, None; Neelam Pushker, None; Seema Sen, None; Anjana Sharma, None; Bhavna Chawla, None Program Number: 3081 Poster Board Number: A0014 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Retinoblastoma (Rb) in Saudi Arabia- Fifteen Year Retrospective Comparative Review of a Registry: 1983-1997 vs. 1998-2007 at King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital Amir Pirouzian1, 2, Saleh Mesfer2, Hind Al Katan2, Azza M. Maktabi2, Mohammad Karoui2, Nasira Asghar2, Babar Zaman2, Wafa Ahmed2, Rajiv Khandekar2, Deepak P. Edward1, 2. 1Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD; 2Ophthalmology, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Purpose: Published data regarding Rb in Saudi Arabia (KSA) is sparse. The objective of this study was to compare the clinical and pathologic features, and evolving patterns of the treatment from 1983-1997 (Early) to 1998-2013 (Late) from an Rb registry; the registry represents all Rb cases in KSA. Methods: The Rb registry was queried for the following parameters: gender, laterality, age, clinical features and stage at presentation; gender, laterality, regional distribution, history, co-morbid diseases, pathologic features, surgical treatment modality and treatment outcome. Results: In the early group (EG) 343 patients were identified vs. 461 patients in the late group (LG). The gender distribution was similar in both groups. The median (inter quartile range) age of presentation was 24 (11, 39) months in EG vs. 18(8, 31) months in LG (p <0.001). Unilateral Rb was noted in EG vs. LG [198 (58%) vs. 277 (60%)]. Positive family history was <10% in both groups. However, in EG, 120 (33%) of parents were first cousins vs. 124 (28%) in the LG (p=0.12). Leukocoria was the most common presenting symptom in both groups 255 (80%) EG vs. 346 (75%) in LG (p=0.13). At presentation, tumor confined to the eye was more common the LG group (67% EG vs. 84% LG). Vitreous seeding was more common in LG [302(62%) LG vs.156 (45%) in EG]. In the non-surgical group, photocoagulation rate increased in the LG [106 (23.19%) vs. 13(3.8%) in EG; p<0.001 ]. The rate of chemotherapy increased from 96 (28%) in EG to 158 (34.64%) in LG (p =0.06). The rate of external beam radiation decreased [125 (36.98%) EG vs. 107(23.41%) in LG, (p <0.001)]. The rate of extraocular tumor extension was similar in both groups (53.7% EG vs. 51.6% LG). The rate of full thickness choroidal involvement decreased from 40 ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology (14.4%) EG to 40(10.34%) in LG, p =0.11; ON involvement in LG decreased to 22 (3.4%) compared to 48(9.8%) in EG (p <0.001). Conclusions: Most Rb clinical parameters remained unchanged over 30 years except an earlier median age of presentation suggesting earlier tumor detection. However, an increasing number of Rb was seen in the last fifteen years. The pathologic features in LG were less advanced suggesting earlier Rb detection. A significant increase in the non-surgical treatment approaches of Rb was noted in the last 15 years. Commercial Relationships: Amir Pirouzian, None; Saleh Mesfer, None; Hind Al Katan, None; Azza M. Maktabi, None; Mohammad Karoui, None; Nasira Asghar, None; Babar Zaman, None; Wafa Ahmed, None; Rajiv Khandekar, None; Deepak P. Edward, None Program Number: 3082 Poster Board Number: A0015 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM SPONTANEOUS RESOLUTION OF MACULAR PUCKER IN TWO PATIENTS WITH RETINOBLASTOMA Jelena Potic1, 2, Maja Beck Popovic3, Marie-Claire Gaillard1, Aubin Balmer1, Francis L. Munier1. 1Hopital Ophtalmique Jules-Gonin, Lausanne, Switzerland; 2University of Belgrade, University Eye Clinic, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia; 3Unité d’hématooncologie pédiatrique CHUV, Lausanne, Switzerland. Purpose: We report on two patients treated for bilateral sporadic retinoblastoma (RB), who presented a macular pucker (MP) that resolved spontaneously. Methods: Fundus imaging was performed under anesthesia including RetCam photography, optical coherence tomography (OCT) (Bioptigen), B-scan ultrasonography (OtiScan), and fluorescein angiography. Results: Patient 1 presented with group D and group A disease at the age of 5 months. Patient 2 was diagnosed group C and group D disease at 15 months of age. Following neoadjuvant systemic chemotherapy, secondary enucleation was performed for the group D eye of both patients in order to prevent optic nerve invasion by the residual tumors and to avoid salvage treatment by conformal stereotactic radiotherapy of the posterior pole. The follow eye of both patients was characterized by a temporally located para-macular tumor,2.5 papillary diameters away from the fovea. In patient 1, tumor control (type IV regression) was achieved by combining transpupillary diode-mediated hyperthermia and argon laser photocoagulation.Five months after completion of the last treatment, thickening (970 micrometers) of the foveal area was observed secondary to the contraction of a MP. This lesion spontaneously resolved 24 months later, with flattening of the macula area as documented by OCT. At 6 years of age his visual acuity was 0.8. In patient 2, the paramacular lesion was treated by chemohyperthermia and hyperthermia resulting in a flat scar. Five months later, the OCT showed the formation of a MP creating a retinal fold across the fovea. Spontaneous resolution of the MP could be observed over the next 18 months,with restoration of the macular anatomy as shown by OCT. At last visit, visual acuity was 0.63, which is within the normal range for his age (2 years and 10 months). Conclusions: Although indirect ophthalmoscopy remains the gold standard for the management of RB, OCT imaging has improved the sensitivity of detecting tumour recurrences and complications especially at the posterior pole. The threshold for macular pucker formation appears to be low in case of tumors located temporally to the fovea and aligned with the papillo-macular bundle. To our knowledge, this is the first time that spontaneous resolution of a macular pucker is documented in retinoblastoma patients. The regression occurred over a 18 to 24 months period, stressing the need to delay the indication to vitrectomy. Commercial Relationships: Jelena Potic, None; Maja Beck Popovic, None; Marie-Claire Gaillard, None; Aubin Balmer, None; Francis L. Munier, None Program Number: 3083 Poster Board Number: A0016 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Retinal vessel architecture in retinoblastoma pre and post treatment Clare Wilson1, 2, Karen Wong3, M. S. Sagoo3, M Ashwin Reddy3. 1 Ophthalmology Department, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, United Kingdom; 2Department of Vision Science, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, United Kingdom; 3Ophthalmology, Barts Health, London, United Kingdom. Purpose: This study aimed to quantify the vessel parameters including width and tortuosity in patients with retinoblastoma before and after treatment. Methods: 20 RetCam images from 10 children diagnosed with retinoblastoma at Royal London Hospital were analysed. The sentinel vessel width and tortuosity values were analyzed with semiautomated software CAIAR (Computer Aided Image Analysis of Retina) at the time of diagnosis and after effective treatment. Data were analyzed with two tailed paired-t test. Results: The mean width of sentinel vessel pre-treatment is 2.59 and post-treatment is 1.60 (p= 0.001; SD= 1.07); the mean tortuosity value of sentinel vessel pre-treatment is 2.55 and post treatment is 1.19 (p=0.011; SD= 2.02). The sentinel vessel width and tortuosity value were significantly less after effective treatment. Conclusions: Prompt treatment is paramount to saving the eye and preventing death from metastasis in retinoblastoma. Retinal vessel width and tortuousity decreases with disease regression. Following further study, the quantification of retinal vessel architecture may be of use as a valuable screening tool, predictor of disease progression and assessment of treatment response in retinoblastoma patients. Commercial Relationships: Clare Wilson, UCL Business (P); Karen Wong, None; M. S. Sagoo, None; M Ashwin Reddy, None Support: Childhhood Eye Cancer Trust (CHECT) Project Grant 2013 Program Number: 3084 Poster Board Number: A0017 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Primary and Salvage Proton Radiotherapy for Intraocular Retinoblastoma: 1990 – 2013 Yoshihiro Yonekawa1, Shannon M. MacDonald2, John E. Munzenrider2, Shizuo Mukai1. 1Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA; 2Radiation Oncology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA. Purpose: Proton radiotherapy allows highly focal tumor targeting with sub-millimeter precision while minimizing exposure of surrounding tissues. Of note, tissues distal to the target volume are completely spared. We present one of the first reports of proton therapy as a primary or salvage treatment modality in the management of intraocular retinoblastoma. Methods: This was a consecutive, retrospective, interventional case series of patients from 1990 to 2013. Results: Forty-seven subjects were identified, and 11 were excluded, resulting in 46 eyes from 36 patients for analyses. Median age at diagnosis was 248.5 days (range 6 days to 2.5 years), and 33 (92%) had bilateral disease. Eyes were treated using 40-46.8 Gy(RBE) (Gray, Radiobiological Equivalent), divided into 20-26 fractions. Median follow-up after proton therapy was 6.8 years (range 1.1-22.1 years). Proton therapy was used as the primary treatment modality ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology in 24 eyes. Tumor control was achieved in 19 (79%) eyes; 9 of 10 (90%) Group B, 3 of 4 (75%) Group C, 6 of 9 (67%) Group D, 1 of 1 (100%) Group E; 3 of 3 (100%) Reese-Ellsworth Group I, 7 of 7 (100%) Group II, 3 of 4 (75%) Group III, 1 of 4 (25%) Group IV, and 5 of 6 (83%) Group V. Twenty-two received proton therapy as salvage therapy; 18 after failed chemoreduction, 3 after failed focal ablation, and 1 after failed intra-arterial chemotherapy. Tumor control was achieved in 18 (82%) of eyes; 8 of 9 (89%) Group B, 5 of 5 (100%) Group C, 4 of 7 (57%) Group D, and 1 of 1 (100%) Group E; 3 of 3 (100%) Reese-Ellsworth Group I, 3 of 3 (100%) Group II, 4 of 4 (100%) Group III, 1 of 1 (100%) Group IV, and 7 of 11 (64%) Group V. Of eyes with tumor control, 7 (26%) underwent cataract extraction, 4 (15%) developed radiation retinopathy, and 1 (4%) developed radiation optic neuropathy. Median final visual acuity was 20/70 (range 20/16-NLP), and 18 (67%) had final visual acuity > 20/200. There were no cases of in-field secondary malignancies, and all patients survived. Conclusions: Proton radiotherapy achieved excellent tumor control both as a primary or salvage treatment modality, without inducing any cases of in-field secondary malignancies. Commercial Relationships: Yoshihiro Yonekawa, None; Shannon M. MacDonald, None; John E. Munzenrider, None; Shizuo Mukai, None Support: Mukai Fund, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA Program Number: 3085 Poster Board Number: A0018 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Focal treatment of retinoblastoma tumors with simultaneous 810nm and 532nm lasers Ashwin Mallipatna, Vandhana Surendranath. Retinoblastoma Service, Narayana Nethralaya, Bangalore, India. Purpose: Focal laser therapy is an essential aspect of treatment of intraocular retinoblastoma, with the utilization of multiple types of lasers and methods of delivery. The effect of the 810nm laser and 532nm laser are different, and simultaneous use of both lasers on a single tumor in the same treatment session is not common. This study describes the results of using this combination of lasers on tumor response. We describe our rationale and experience in utilizing the effects of a combination of both lasers in an attempt to achieve a more rapid reduction in tumor size. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed the simultaneous use of the 810 and 532nm lasers delivered through an indirect ophthalmoscope in 14 children with intraocular retinoblastoma. Results: A total of 32 tumors were individually analyzed in 18 eyes of 14 children with intraocular retinoblastoma. An initial gentle application of 810nm laser rendered the tumor opaque, without affecting the tumor vasculature. Once the tumor vasculature was clearly visible, application of the 532nm laser was able to photocoagulate this tumor vasculature. With this technique, we were able to demonstrate rapid reduction in tumor size in specific instances, along with documentation of the effect of each laser with ocular coherence tomography. None of the cases experienced laser related complications after the combination of lasers. Twenty-eight tumors went on to be inactive. Three eyes required enucleation for persistent tumor activity. Conclusions: A combination of 810nm and 532nm lasers used in the same session might help augment the effect of focal laser therapy. We would suggest this technique be used in certain situations to help a rapid reduction in tumor size. Caution must be exercised to ensure that we do not over apply laser, leading to laser related complications. Commercial Relationships: Ashwin Mallipatna, None; Vandhana Surendranath, None Program Number: 3086 Poster Board Number: A0019 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Treatment Patterns and Survival of Patients with Retinoblastoma: A Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Dataset Evaluation Diana A. Tamboli1, Arun D. Singh2, Alan Topham3. 1Ophthalmology, Loyola University Chicago, Stritch School of Medic, Maywood, IL; 2 Ophthalmology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH; 3Coalition of National Cancer Cooperative Group Inc., Philidelphia, PA. Purpose: Treatment of Retinoblastoma (Rb) over the years has shifted from enucleation and radiation towards multimodal therapy involving chemotherapy and focal therapy. We sought to analyze the SEER database to determine the treatment patterns of Rb and its impact on survival from 1975 to 2010. Methods: The SEER dataset was used to identify cases of Rb using ICD-03 histology codes. Special permission was granted by the SEER administration to release chemotherapy information for this study (information which is not available in the publically available SEER dataset). Treatment of Rb for patients with locoregional disease was characterized as surgical therapy, radiation therapy, chemotherapy or any form thereof across 4 time periods from 1975-2010. Overall survival was performed using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared using the log rank method. Results: There were 1452 cases of Rb identified from 1975-2010 with 48% of patients being male and 30% presenting with bilateral disease. Twelve hundred twenty (84%) patients presented with localized disease. Table 1 shows grouped treatment patterns over time with an increase in chemotherapy (+/- any treatment) from 16.5% to 50.2% and a decrease in surgery (+/- any treatment) from 96.2% to 88.5% and decrease in radiation from 15.2% to 4.9% from the 19751979 time period to the 2000-2010 time period. Ten year overall survival was approximately 97% for the two most contemporary time periods (1990-1999 and 2000-2010), 94% for 1975-1979 and 92% for 1980-1989. Conclusions: Treatment trends for Rb show an increase in chemotherapy utilization with a decrease in surgery and radiation therapy from 1975-2010. Increased utilization of chemotherapy corresponds with an improvement in survival. Future studies with in depth analysis will be required to confirm treatment superiority of various forms of chemotherapy (intravenous, intra arterial, intravitreal). Table 1: Grouped Treatment Patterns over Time (Note the sum of each column does not sum to 100%; each row in independent of each other) ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology = 9.5). Vitreous seeding was associated with anterior chamber angle invasion (OR = 3.3). Ectropion uvea was associated with ciliary body invasion (OR = 20.7), massive choroidal invasion (OR = 45.7) and optic nerve invasion (OR = 36). Massive choroidal invasion could be predicted by clinical signs of buphthalmos [Adj OR = 0.08 (95% CI 0.007 – 0.9)] and uveal ectropion [Adj OR = 0.05 (95% CI 0.004 – 0.7 )]. Conclusions: This study suggests that certain clinical features in advanced retinoblastoma can be associated with HRF on pathologic examination. The presence of buphthalmos and uveal ectropion at presentation correlated with at least 2 HRF massive choroidal invasion ..and ciliary body invasion. Commercial Relationships: Azza M. Maktabi, None; Mohammed Karaoui, None; Saleh Al-Mesfer, None; Hind Al Katan, None; Sahar M. Elkhamary, None; Deepak Edward, None Figure 1: Overall Survival by Time Period (p<0.02) Commercial Relationships: Diana A. Tamboli, None; Arun D. Singh, None; Alan Topham, None Program Number: 3087 Poster Board Number: A0020 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Clinical Predictors of high risk pathological features in advanced enucleated Retinoblastoma. Azza M. Maktabi1, Mohammed Karaoui5, Saleh Al-Mesfer2, Hind Al Katan1, Sahar M. Elkhamary3, Deepak Edward4. 1Pathology and Laboratory department, King Khalid Eye Specialist Hospital,KKESH, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 2Oncology Division, King Khalid Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 3Diagnostic Imaging Department, King Khalid Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 4Reasearch Department, King Khalid Eye specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 5Medicine and Peadiatric Department, King Khalid Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Purpose: Advanced retinoblastoma can present with a spectrum of clinical findings that often leads to enucleation. However, a decision on adjuvant treatment is based on the presence of high risk features (HRF) determined on pathologic examination. The aim of this study is to determine whether certain clinical features of advanced disease could predict pathologic HRF that would merit adjuvant treatment. Methods: Medical records and histopathology of enucleated specimens from 69 patients who underwent enucleation prior to receiving any treatment at King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital over were reviewed. Clinical findings were recorded in a database. The histologic slides were evaluated for HRF including anterior chamber angle invasion, iris invasion, ciliary body invasion, massive choroidal invasion, optic nerve invasion beyond lamina cribrosa, intrascleral infiltration, and extrascleral extension. Univariate analysis was performed to determine odd ratio Results: Sixty nine eyes (34 boys and 35 girls; mean age 19 months) were included in this study . Hyphema was associated with iris invasion [Odd’s ratio (OR) = 12)] and ciliary body invasion (OR = 12). Buphthalmos was associated with massive choroidal invasion (OR = 30.5), optic nerve invasion (OR = 10). Increased intraocular pressure was associated with anterior chamber angle invasion (OR = 3.9), ciliary body invasion (OR = 13)] and optic nerve invasion (OR Program Number: 3088 Poster Board Number: A0021 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Long-term outcomes of Group B eyes in retinoblastoma patients treated with chemoreduction and low-dose IMRT radiation therapy as salvage: The Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Experience Dagny Zhu2, 1, Jesse L. Berry1, 2, Rima Jubran1, Thomas C. Lee1, A. Linn Murphree1, 2, Jonathan W. Kim1, 2. 1Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA; 2Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA. Purpose: To evaluate long-term outcomes of Group B eyes of retinoblastoma patients. Methods: Retrospective chart review of patients diagnosed with retinoblastoma and designated Group B in at least one eye from January 1, 1991 to December 31, 2011 at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) was done. Overall, 115 Group B eyes of 102 patients were included; 18 had bilateral disease. Primary chemoreduction (CRD) with vincristine, etoposide, and carboplatin was administered along with local consolidation. Salvage therapy if required was administered in the form of low-dose intensitymodulated radiation therapy (IMRT) as salvage for recurrent or persistent tumor. Primary outcome measure was globe salvage. Results: Of 115 Group B eyes, 113 were initially treated with CRD and local consolidation. Three cycles of primary CRD with local consolidation cured 98 of 113 eyes (87%). Recurrent or persistent tumors were found in 15 eyes: 8 were treated with additional cycles of CRD, 1 with proton beam, 4 with IMRT, and 2 with both additional CRD and IMRT. Of the 7 irradiated eyes, 6 (86%) were salvaged and 1 (14%) required enucleation. Of the 8 eyes treated with additional CRD, 1 (12.5%) eye was salvaged and 7 (87.5%) required enucleation. Final visual acuity ranged from 20/20 to count fingers; 92% had vision better than 20/40. Average follow-up was 2.6 years (range 0.2 – 19 years). Conclusions: Three cycles of systemic CRD with local consolidation for Group B retinoblastoma demonstrated a very high rate of globe preservation. For tumor recurrences, low dose IMRT therapy offers an effective salvage treatment. Commercial Relationships: Dagny Zhu, None; Jesse L. Berry, None; Rima Jubran, None; Thomas C. Lee, None; A. Linn Murphree, None; Jonathan W. Kim, None ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 3089 Poster Board Number: A0022 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Long-Term Outcomes of Group C Eyes in Retinoblastoma Patients Treated With Chemoreduction and Low-Dose IMRT as Salvage Lilangi Ediriwickrema1, Jesse L. Berry2, Rima Jubran3, Thomas C. Lee1, 2, A. Linn Murphree2, Jonathan W. Kim1, 2. 1Ophthalmology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA; 2The Vision Center, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA; 3The Children’s Center for Cancer and Blood Diseases, Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA. Purpose: To evaluate outcomes of Group C eyes of unilateral and bilateral retinoblastoma patients treated with primary chemoreduction and intensity modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) as salvage. Methods: Retrospective chart review of patients diagnosed with unilateral and bilateral retinoblastoma and designated Group C in at least one eye from January 1, 1991 to December 31, 2011. Overall, 36 Group C eyes of 36 patients were included; 26 had bilateral disease. Primary chemoreduction (CRD) with vincristine, etoposide, and carboplatin with local consolidation was administered, followed by external beam radiation in the form of low-dose intensitymodulated radiation therapy (IMRT) as salvage for persistent or recurrent tumor. Primary outcome measure was globe salvage. Results: Of the 26 Group C eyes in patients with bilateral retinoblastoma, none were enucleated primarily; 5 of the 10 unilateral Group C eyes were enucleated primarily. Thus, CRD and local therapy was used to treat 31 retinoblastoma eyes. CRD cured 22 of 31 (71%) Group C eyes. Recurrences were found in 9 eyes; five underwent secondary enucleation due to poor visual prognosis, and four received low dose IMRT as salvage therapy. Of the 4 irradiated eyes, 100% were salvaged and none required enucleation (Figure 1). Final visual acuity ranged from 20/20 to no light perception with 13 eyes having 20/80 or better visual acuity in the bilateral retinoblastoma patients. Average follow-up was 98 months (range 22 to 211 months). Chemoreduction was well tolerated by all patients. Conclusions: Estimates of eye survival of Group C eyes in bilateral patients at 12 months is 91.7%; at 60 months eye survival is estimated to be 87.5% (Figure 2). Systemic treatment for retinoblastoma demonstrated an extremely high rate of globe preservation with acceptable complications and many eyes retaining functional vision. Figure 1: Treatment Modality and Percent Recurrence of Group C Eyes (n=31 eyes) Figure 2: Kaplan-Meier Estimate of Eye Survival of Group C Eyes in Bilateral Patients (n=24 eyes) Commercial Relationships: Lilangi Ediriwickrema, None; Jesse L. Berry, None; Rima Jubran, None; Thomas C. Lee, None; A. Linn Murphree, None; Jonathan W. Kim, None Support: Retinoblastoma International, Inc.; The Institute for Families, Inc.; Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles Program Number: 3090 Poster Board Number: A0023 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Intraarterial Chemotherapy (Ophthalmic Artery Chemosurgery) for Group D Retinoblastoma Anthony Daniels1, Y. Pierre Gobin2, 3, Brian Marr3, Jasmine H. Francis3, Scott E. Brodie4, 3, David H. Abramson3. 1Divisions of Ocular Oncology and Retina, Department of Ophthalmology, Vanderbilt Eye Institute, Nashville, TN; 2Neurosurgery / Interventional Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, TN; 3Ophthalmic Oncology, Memorial Sloan-Kettering, New York, NY; 4Ophthalmology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY. Purpose: To evaluate intraarterial chemotherapy (OAC) as a treatment for group D eyes, both those that have failed other treatments and in the treatment-naïve setting. While group A-C eyes can often be managed with other treatment modalities, these other treatments are less successful in group D eyes. Methods: IRB-approved retrospective review of all Group D eyes treated with OAC from 5/2006-12/2012 at our institution. Patients were treated according to our previously-published techniques. Demographics, prior treatment, OAC agents used, outcomes and adverse events were recorded. Results: 100 patients (109 eyes) with group D retinoblastoma who underwent OAC were included. 45 eyes were treatment-naïve and 63 eyes had received prior treatments elsewhere. 6 infants (7 eyes) underwent IV carboplatin bridge until old enough to undergo OAC. Median age at first treatment was 16 months (range 3-252). Treatment-naïve patients were significantly younger than patients ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology previously treated elsewhere (19.5 vs. 37.1 months, p=0.0005). Median number of OAC sessions/eye was 3 (range 1-9), with no difference between pretreated and naïve groups (p=0.34). 106/109 eyes received IA melphalan, but only 31 eyes received melphalan as the only agent. 41 eyes received carboplatin, and 76 eyes received topotecan (never as a single agent). 78/109 eyes received >1 drug over the course of treatment. 24 eyes (17 pretreated, 7 treatmentnaïve, 0 bridge) failed treatment and required enucleation during the study period. Eyes that were treatment-naïve prior to us initiating OAC or bridge-OAC were much less likely to ultimately require enucleation (13% of treatment-naïve vs. 30% of pretreated eyes; OR for prior treatment=2.8; p=0.035). OAC-related adverse events included bronchospasm (44 patients), Grade 3/4 neutropenia (31 patients), periocular edema (16 eyes), forehead hyperemia (14 eyes) or madarosis (10 eyes). 3 patients developed metastases (all survived), and 1 child developed (and died from) a second nonocular cancer. No patient developed a new intraocular tumor during treatment or follow-up. Conclusions: In Group D eyes, primary OAC (or Carboplatin bridge to OAC in young infants) is able to achieve globe salvage in 87% of eyes. 70% of eyes that failed prior conventional therapy could be salvaged. OAC prevented the development of subsequent, new intraocular tumor foci. These results are notably better than published series using other methods. Commercial Relationships: Anthony Daniels, None; Y. Pierre Gobin, None; Brian Marr, None; Jasmine H. Francis, None; Scott E. Brodie, None; David H. Abramson, None Support: Fund for Ophthalmic Knowledge, Inc. Program Number: 3091 Poster Board Number: A0024 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Efficacy of second-course ophthalmic artery chemosurgery for retinoblastoma Jasmine H. Francis1, Y. P. Gobin2, Brian Marr1, 2, Irwin Tendler1, 2, Scott E. Brodie3, 1, David H. Abramson1, 2, Ira J. Dunkel1, 2. 1Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY; 2Weill-Cornell Medical College, New York Presbyterian, New York, NY; 3Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY. Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy of second-course ophthalmic artery chemosurgery (OAC) following progression of disease after completing initially successful ophthalmic artery chemosurgery for retinoblastoma. Methods: Single-arm, retrospective study of 31 eyes in 32 patients treated with second-course OAC at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center between May 2006 and July 2013, with a median 34 months follow-up. The study included patients who underwent a successful course of IA chemotherapy, with a minimum of 2 months of progression-free follow-up at monthly examinations, but who subsequently required additional OAC for recurrent tumor. Outcome measurements included progression free survival and ocular survival. Kaplan Meier survival estimates were generated and the Mantel-Cox test was used to compare curves. Results: Eyes requiring second-line OAC had initially received a mean of 3.1 OAC infusions. They developed progression of disease and necessity for second-course OAC at a mean of 8.7 mos following initial OAC. The 2-year Kaplan-Meier ocular survival and progression free survival estimates following second-course OAC were 80.2% (95% confidence interval [CI], 58.5-91.3%) and 47.0% (95% confidence interval [CI], 27.8-64.0%), respectively. Vitreous seeds were present in 17 (53%) of eyes requiring second-course OAC and were significantly associated with progression of disease following second-course OAC (p=0.01). Neither prior treatment status, age at initial OAC, addition of new drug, or increasing number of infusions during second-course OAC was significantly associated with progression free survival. Conclusions: Retinoblastoma eyes requiring second-course OAC following initial OAC treatment have good salvage rates. However, these eyes often require additional (third or fourth-course) OAC or other treatment modalities due to progression of disease after secondline OAC, particularly if vitreous seeds are present at the time of initial OAC failure. Commercial Relationships: Jasmine H. Francis, None; Y. P. Gobin, None; Brian Marr, None; Irwin Tendler, None; Scott E. Brodie, None; David H. Abramson, None; Ira J. Dunkel, None Support: Fund for Ophthalmic Knowledge Program Number: 3092 Poster Board Number: A0025 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Outcome of 20 eyes with recurrent or refractory retinoblastoma using selective intra-arterial and/or intravitreal chemotherapy Luiz Teixeira1, 3, Jose R. Fonseca2, 3, Juliana Soares3, Camila H. Hashimoto3, Carla D. Macedo3. 1Ophthalmology, Federal University of São Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil; 2Radiology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; 3Pediatric Oncology Institute, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil. Purpose: To evaluate the outcome of 20 eyes, with recurrent or refractory retinoblastoma after intravenous chemotherapy, using selective intra-arterial chemotherapy (SIAC) and/or intravitreal chemotherapy (IViC). Methods: Retrospective study, approved by the institutional review board, of 20 eyes of 17 patients. SIAC was used as first option in cases with retinal or subretinal disease with or without vitreous seeding. IViC was used for isolated vitreous disease or for complementary treatment in eyes with partial vitreous seeding response to SIAC. Focal therapy was used as needed to consolidate treatment. Results: Twenty eyes of 17 patients were treated. 15 (75%) eyes were treated with SIAC, 2 (10%) eyes with IViC and 3 (15%) eyes with both therapies. SIAC was used in 18 eyes. (melphalan plus topotecan and carboplatin in 15 eyes; melphalan plus topotecan in 1 eye and melphalan in 2 eyes). The median infusions per eye were 2 (range 1-3). Dose ranges were 3-5 mg for melphalan, 0,3-0,4 mg for topotecan and 30-40 mg for carboplatin. Five eyes received IViC (melphalan 30 μg in 0,05 ml – every 7 days). The median injectios were 5 (range 2-7). At a median follow up of 11 months (range 3-30 months) all patients are alive with no metastatic disease. 17 of 20 eyes (85%) were preserved. Conclusions: The use of both therapies SIAC and IViC as isolated modality or in combination to treat recurrent or refractory retinoblastoma showed successfully results in globe preservation. Commercial Relationships: Luiz Teixeira, None; Jose R. Fonseca, None; Juliana Soares, None; Camila H. Hashimoto, None; Carla D. Macedo, None Program Number: 3093 Poster Board Number: A0026 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Indocyanine green-mediated Photothrombosis in the treatment of Vasoproliferative Retinal Tumors: a case series Enrico Bertelli, Michael Simonazzi. Divisione Oculistica, Ospedale Centrale Bolzano, Bolzano, Italy. Purpose: To assess the efficacy of indocyanine green-mediated photothrombosis (ICGMP) in the treatment of Vasoproliferative Retinal Tumors (VPRT) with various size and clinical expression. Lesions were all peripheral and symptomatic, due to associated manifestations at the level of retina and/or vitreous. Methods: Retrospective, consecutive case series. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology 4 consecutive patients, 2 males, 2 females, aged 39 to 62 years, presenting unilateral, single VPRT lesions of variable size (1,5 to 7 mm maximum diameter) underwent ICGMP at our institution. Late pooling or staining of ICG dye within the lesion was considered an essential prerequisite for the treatment. Thirty minutes after the administration of a loading dose of 1 mg/kg of intravenous ICG multiple, confluent, 2 mm wide, infrared 810 nm diode laser spots were applied on the surface of the tumors. The final number of spots applied were related to the tumor size. Duration of each spot was up to 60 sec., with power between 400 and 1200 mW. Pain perception by the patient during treatment was used as limit for the single laser exposure. Diode laser power was increased until pain threshold was reached, starting at 300 mW. Results: No change in tumor aspect was observed during and immediately after treatment. ICG late images were taken after treatment, showing no hyperfluorescence of the lesion in all cases. In 2 cases 2 treatments were sufficient to obliterate the lesion. In the remaining 2 cases 3 and 4 treatments respectively were necessary, in order to achieve a complete destruction of the lesion. In 2 cases an associated vitreoretinal interface disorder (stage 3 macular hole) underwent successful vitreoretinal surgery 2 to 3 months after treatment of the VPRT lesion. Visual acuity improved in 3 cases and remained stable in 1 case, in which faint vitreous hemorrhage was present at first observation, with patient retaining full vision. All lesion regressed to fibrotic and partly pigmented scars. Conclusions: In the reported case series (4 eyes of 4 patients) ICGMP achieved complete obliteration of single VPRT lesions of different size (1,5 to 7 mm). Significant improvement or stabilization of function was achieved in all cases. ICGMP is less invasive than cryotherapy and less expensive than Photodynamic Therapy. It may deserve further attention in the treatment of selected retinal vascular tumors characterized by late ICG pooling or staining. Commercial Relationships: Enrico Bertelli, None; Michael Simonazzi, None Program Number: 3094 Poster Board Number: A0027 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Natural History of Circumscribed Choroidal Hemangiomas Angelica G. Ortiz1, Marco A. Gonzalez2, J William Harbour2, Bernadete Ayres2. 1University of Miami, Miami, FL; 2Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miami, FL. Purpose: To evaluate the natural course of the clinical and ultrasonographic characteristics of circumscribed choroidal hemangiomas. Methods: This is a non-comparative consecutive case series from January 2000 through July 2013. Patients presenting with circumscribed choroidal hemangiomas at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute were identified. Data was collected on demographics, clinical features, treatments, and visual outcomes. Results: A total of 78 eyes in 78 patients were identified. The mean age at presentation was 54.9 years (range: 19 to 88). The mean follow up after presentation was 42.8 months. Presenting visual acuity was equal or better than 20/50 in 37 of 87 patients (43%). 42 patients had an associated serous retinal detachment. The mean height on initial ultrasonography was 2.4 mm (range 1 to 5 mm). Treatment included photodynamic therapy in 40 eyes. Final visual acuity was equal or better than 20/50 in 38 of 87 patients (44%). Conclusions: Circumscribed choroidal hemangiomas are rare, vascular hamartomas. In spite of the benign nature of this tumor, many patients in the present study developed sight-threatening complications requiring treatment. An understanding of the natural history of circumscribed uveal hemangioma is important for predicting disease trends and determining the timing of treatment. Commercial Relationships: Angelica G. Ortiz, None; Marco A. Gonzalez, None; J William Harbour, None; Bernadete Ayres, None ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 3095 Poster Board Number: A0028 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Utility of wide-field autofluorescence imaging in screening for new retinal capillary hemangiomas associated with von Hippel Lindau disease Ilya Leskov, Shizuo Mukai. Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, MA. Purpose: Fluorescein angiography (FA) is used for the identification of retinal capillary hemangiomas in patients with von Hippel Lindau disease (VHL). We show that new retinal hemangiomas can also be identified using wide-field autofluorescence imaging, which may obviate the need for fluorescein administration in some cases. Methods: A consecutive, retrospective case series of patients with von Hippel Lindau disease that were seen between 2011 and 2013. Results: Thirty-one patients with previously identified mutations of the VHL gene were seen between 2011 and 2013. During this time period, they underwent 102 wide-field retinal imaging studies using the Optos system, which included autofluorescence as well as FA. Seventeen patients (55%, median age 34 years) were found to have retinal capillary hemangiomas, of whom 11 developed a total of 17 new hemangiomas during the study period. Fourteen patients (45%, median age 14.5 years) remained hemangioma-free. Of the newly identified hemangiomas, 9 were located within the autofluorescence image field. Notably, all 9 of these lesions (100%) were detectable using autofluorescence. All new hemangiomas that were not visualized with autofluorescence were located outside of the autofluorescence image field. Hemangiomas that remained active despite treatment did not appear significantly different on autofluorescence from ones that had been treated successfully. Conclusions: Wide-field autofluorescence imaging is as effective as FA for detecting new retinal capillary hemangiomas associated with von Hippel Lindau disease. While FA is superior for surveillance of previously treated hemangiomas, obtaining autofluorescence images from retinal periphery may obviate the need for fluorescein administration in screening younger VHL patients for new hemangiomas. Commercial Relationships: Ilya Leskov, None; Shizuo Mukai, None Program Number: 3096 Poster Board Number: A0029 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Results of Single spot limited PDT in patients with choroidal haemangioma Marilette Stehouwer1, Jan E. Keunen2, Reinier O. Schlingemann1, Frank D. Verbraak1. 1Ophthalmology, AMC, Amsterdam, Netherlands; 2Ophthalmology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Netherlands. Purpose: To study the long term outcome of patients with a circumscribed choroidal hemangioma (CCH) treated with a single spot limited photodynamic therapy (PDT) with Visudyne. Methods: Twenty patients with a CCH were treated between 2001 and 2010 with a single spot limited PDT for CCH. The single spot covered only the most prominent part of the tumour, using a standard diode laser (692 nm), with a radiance exposure of 50 J/cm2, starting 6 min after a 1-min infusion with Visudyne (6 mg/m2 BSA). In a retrospective design the long term outcome was evaluated. Outcome parameters were: change in visual acuity (VA) pre,- and post PDT, presence of regression of the tumour on ultrasound (USG), presence and change of leakage on OCT. Results: Regression of the tumour was seen in all patients with USG during follow up (mean follow-up 17.7 months, range 3 to 36 months). In 12 patients, the tumour became undetectable on ultrasound examination. The VA pre-PDT varied from 20/400 to 20/20, and was less than 20/40 in 10 patients. After treatment in only 5 patients VA remained below 20/40. Overall, Improvement of VA to 20/25 or higher was seen in 14 patients. In all patients, retinal leakage on OCT disappeared following PDT. Three patients had a recurrence of the CCH with retinal leakage, 4.5, 3 and 9.3 years after PDT treatment. In all of them the tumour was still detectable after the first PDT. After retreatment with limited PDT, 2 patients recovered with a VA of 20/20, the other patient showed regression of the tumour but without improvement of VA (20/800). In the 17 patients without recurrence of leakage all parameters remained stable during followup. Conclusions: Circumscribed choroidal hemangioma is effectively treated with a single spot limited photodynamic therapy with improvement of VA in the majority of cases. A recurrence can be seen especially when the tumour is not completely regressed after initial PDT. Commercial Relationships: Marilette Stehouwer, None; Jan E. Keunen, None; Reinier O. Schlingemann, None; Frank D. Verbraak, None Program Number: 3097 Poster Board Number: A0030 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Bevacizumab injections in patients with a choroidal neovascular membrane secondary to choroidal osteoma Maria Pefkianaki1, Vasilios Papastefanou1, 2, Richard Andrews1, Victoria Cohen1, 2, Mandeep S. Sagoo1, 2. 1Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom; 2St Bartholomew`s Hospital, London, United Kingdom. Purpose: To present the outcomes of a series of patients with choroidal neovascular membrane (CNV) secondary to a choroidal osteoma. Methods: In this retrospective series patients underwent complete clinical and imaging assessment (fundus photo, fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography) and were managed with intravitreal anti-VEGF injections. Visual acuity and central retinal thickness were recorded pre treatment and at the end of follow up period. Results: Six patients were included in this study. Of this, 4/6 had predominantly classic or classic and 2/6 patients had minimally classic or occult CNV. Treatment with intravitreal anti-VEGF was applied in all cases (1-3 injections of bevacizumab). Median follow up was 6 months (6-10 months). Visual acuity improved in all patients by 2-6 Snellen lines. CNV completely regressed in 4 cases and partially regressed in 2 cases. Central retinal thickness change ranged from -222 μm to +60 μm. Conclusions: Intravitreal bevacizumab is an effective treatment modality in the management of vision threatening choroidal neovascular membrane secondary to choroidal osteoma Commercial Relationships: Maria Pefkianaki, None; Vasilios Papastefanou, None; Richard Andrews, None; Victoria Cohen, None; Mandeep S. Sagoo, None Program Number: 3098 Poster Board Number: A0031 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM En face OCT imaging of retinal and choroidal tumors Cinzia Mazzini, Daniela Bacherini, Andrea Giorni, Giulia Pieretti, Ugo Menchini. Department of Surgery and Translational Medicine, Eye Clinic, University of Florence, Florence, Italy. Purpose: To describe optical coherence tomography (OCT) features of retinal and choroidal tumors using the en face technique. Methods: Prospective observational case series. We included in our study 66 eyes of 65 patients with retinal or choroidal tumors. Patients underwent ophthalmoscopic examination, fundus photography, A and B-scan ultrasonography, SD-OCT and en face OCT. All the OCT ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology images were obtained by CIRRUS OCT (Carl Zeiss, Meditec) with the 512x128 macular cube acquisition. For each retinal and choroidal lesion qualitative characteristics (tumor outline, reflectivity and/or shadowing of choroidal layers) were assessed. Results: In all cases, en face OCT was able to identify the tumor from the surrounding normal choroid, allowing to determine the tumor area. En face OCT scan is able to detect structural and morphological details. In our cases, en face OCT imaging of choroidal nevi shows a well demarcated, sub-retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) hyporeflectivity area, while images of choroidal melanomas show a sub-RPE hyporeflective area with irregular and hyper-reflective edge due to vascular tissue. Choroidal hemangioma shows a circumscribed sub-RPE hyperreflective area surrounded by a hyporeflective ring. Choroidal metastasis often show an irregular hyporeflective area, but in some cases we observed a well-demarcated round shape. Choroidal osteoma is well visualized as an irregular hyporeflective area. We evaluated en face OCT morphological features of retinal astrocytoma and RPE adenoma. Even small choroidal lesions nondetectable by ultrasonography can be objectively identified and measured by this new technique. Conclusions: En face OCT could be a useful diagnostic modality for imaging the retina and RPE overlying a choroidal lesion. This diagnostic approach may provide some information about peculiar details of choroidal and retinal lesions which cannot be imaged with other techniques and it will probably represent an useful tool to monitor the changes during follow-up. Commercial Relationships: Cinzia Mazzini, None; Daniela Bacherini, None; Andrea Giorni, None; Giulia Pieretti, None; Ugo Menchini, None Program Number: 3099 Poster Board Number: A0032 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Ciliary Body Melanocytomas: Ultrasonographic Characteristics and Natural Course in 10 Cases Phillip Tenzel, Marco A. Gonzalez, J. Antonio Bermudez Magner, J William Harbour. Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miami, FL. Purpose: To evaluate the natural course of the clinical and ultrasonographic characteristics of ciliary body melanocytomas. Methods: This is a non-comparative consecutive case series of patients with biopsy proven ciliary body melanocytomas. Data was collected on demographics, clinical features, treatments, and visual outcomes. Results: A total of 10 eyes in 10 patients were identified. The mean age at presentationwas 65.1years (range of 55 to 75). The mean follow up after presentation was 35 months. Mean initial ultrasound height was 2.19 mm (range of 0.7 to 5.5 mm). Clinical factors associated with ciliary body melanocytomas were dark brown color, pigment deposition into trabecular meshwork, stability of size on ultrasonography, and shaggy contour on ultrasonography. Conclusions: Ciliary body melanocytomas are rare, benign melanocytic tumors that can be difficult to distinguish from malignant melanoma. Certain clinical and ultrasonographic characteristics are unique to melanocytomas and may be used as diagnostic tools to help identify these uveal tumors. Commercial Relationships: Phillip Tenzel, None; Marco A. Gonzalez, None; J. Antonio Bermudez Magner, None; J William Harbour, None Program Number: 3100 Poster Board Number: A0033 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Autofluorescence Pattern of Optic Disc Melanocytoma Panagiotis Salvanos1, 2, Tor P. Utheim3, Morten Carstens Moe1, 2, Ragnheidur Bragadottir1, 2, Nils Eide1. 1Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; 2University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; 3Department of Medical Biochemistry, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway. Purpose: To evaluate the autofluorescence changes caused by optic disc melanocytoma (ODM). Methods: Three eyes from 3 patients with ODM were included. Ultra-widefield autofluorescent images (UW-FAF) were obtained with the 532nm laser (Optomap P200Tx). Results: Mean patient age was 44 years. Mean follow-up time from the time of first observation was 16.5 years. Best-corrected visual acuity was 20/25. Clinical examination revealed a domeshaped, darkly pigmented tumor on or adjacent to the optic disc in all patients, with a mean tumor basal dimension 1.3 mm and mean tumor thickness by ultrasonography 1 mm. UW-FAF revealed a totally hypofluorescent mass with sharply demarcated, feathery edges on or adjacent to the optic disc. No hyperfluorescent changes due to orange pigment or subretinal fluid in the tumor area or the periphery were seen. There was no major discrepancy in the size of the tumor between autofluorescent images and ophthalmoscopy. Conclusions: UW-FAF imaging is a novel, noninvasive adjuvant tool in the differential diagnosis of pigmented fundus lesions and might offer more insight in the pathophysiology of optic disc melanocytoma. Commercial Relationships: Panagiotis Salvanos, None; Tor P. Utheim, None; Morten Carstens Moe, None; Ragnheidur Bragadottir, None; Nils Eide, None Program Number: 3101 Poster Board Number: A0034 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Clinical characteristics of intraocular lymphoma in southern Japan Wakako Yoshinaga, Kumiko Nakao, Taiji Sakamoto. Ophthalmology, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima City, Japan. Purpose: Because of the epidemic of Human T cell leukemia/ lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1) in southern Japan (antibody prevalence 6%), the clinical characteristics of intraocular lymphoma in southern Japan differ from those in other areas. The purpose of ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology this study was to find the clinical features of patients diagnosed with intraocular lymphoma in an academic referral hospital in southern Japan. Methods: The Kagoshima University Hospital is located in Kagoshima, the southernmost prefecture of main-islands of Japan, which covers 1.7 million of populations. We reviewed the medical records of patients with intraocular lymphoma diagnosed and treated at the Kagoshima University Hospital from 2000 to 2011. Results: During the study period, 26 cases, 10 men and 16 women, were diagnosed with intraocular lymphoma. The mean age at presentation was 64.2 years. Follow-up period ranged from 1 month to 10 years with a median of 19 months. Eight patients had lymphoma in an unilateral eye and 18 had bilateral eyes final examination at the time. The most frequent symptom was visual disturbance or blurred vision. On ophthalmological check-ups, the most common sign was vitreous opacity. Ocular disease concurrent with central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma was observed in 73.0%, while the localized ocular disease was found in 7.7% of the patients. Intraocular lymphoma occurred as the primary lymphoma in 57.7%, and as ocular relapse of the primary CNS lymphoma in 15.4% the cases. The 5-year survival rate was 60.2%. A positive serological test for HTLV-1 was found only in 2 cases. Conclusions: The bilateral onset, elderly female and vitreous infiltration were common characteristics of intraocular lymphoma in southern Japan. Intraocular lymphoma with no systemic involvement was rare. Despite its high epidemic, HTLV-1 was associated with uveitis, but not intraocular lymphoma. Commercial Relationships: Wakako Yoshinaga, None; Kumiko Nakao, None; Taiji Sakamoto, None Program Number: 3102 Poster Board Number: A0035 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–12:45 PM Life Expectancy of Patients with Intraocular Lymphoma after Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Transplantation Manfred Zierhut, Tarek Bayyoud, Bianka Sobolewska, Christoph M. Deuter. Centre for Ophthalmology, University of Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany. Purpose: Primary intraocular lymphoma (PIOL) is the ocular disorder with the shortest 5-year survival time. It is mostly a diffuse large B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Up to 80% are associated with or will develop CNS-lymphoma. This is the reason for treating even isolated ocular disease systemically. Current treatment involves mainly intravenous high dose methotrexate (MTX) for PIOL. Peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (PBSCT) has been shown to be very effective for primary CNS lymphoma. Methods: Retrospective observational study of 5 patients with intraocular lymphoma without (n=2) or with CNS involvement (n=3). All patients had standardized clinical and ophthalmological assessments. All patients received PBSCT in addition to high dose intravenous MTX. Three of these patients received additional chemotherapeutics and 1 patient radiation therapy. Results: Five patients (3 female and 2 male) with intraocular lymphoma were included in this study. The mean age at the initial presentation was 55.2 years (range: 40-74 years). The mean time of survival, starting with the initial symptoms, was 77.2 months (range: 25-136 months). All patients showed complete response of their intraocular and CNS-lymphoma. Today all patients are alive without any signs of relapses. Conclusions: Treatment of intraocular lymphoma with PBSCT in addition to chemotherapeutics resulted in all patients in complete remission and long survival time. Commercial Relationships: Manfred Zierhut, None; Tarek Bayyoud, None; Bianka Sobolewska, None; Christoph M. Deuter, None 374 Myopia Tuesday, May 06, 2014 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Exhibit/Poster Hall SA Poster Session Program #/Board # Range: 3587–3614/A0036–A0063 Organizing Section: Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 3587 Poster Board Number: A0036 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Relationship between axial length and 64 cells retinal thickness or optic disc-to-fovea angle in young healthy eyes Takehiro Yamashita, Taiji Sakamoto, Yuya Kii, Minoru Tanaka, Kumiko Nakao. Ophthalmology, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan. Purpose: To determine relationship between axial length and 64 cells retinal thickness with posterior pole asymmetry scan (PPA) or optic disc-to-fovea angle (OFA) in young healthy eyes. Methods: A prospective study of 64 healthy right eyes was performed. All participants (mean age 25.6 ± 3.5) underwent comprehensive ophthalmologic examination, including axial length, color fundus photographs and optical coherence tomography (OCT). The 64 cells retinal thicknesses were measured by the PPA of Spectralis SD-OCT. The OFA was calculated using the fundus photographs. The relationships between the retinal thickness of the 64 cells or the OFA and the axial length were investigated using linear regression analysis. Results: Retinal thicknesses of central 4 cells were not significantly correlated with the axial length (R=-0.07 to 0.01, p >0.05). Retinal thicknesses of almost other cells (54 cells) were significantly negatively correlated with the axial length (R=-0.25 to -0.56, p <0.05). The OFA was not significantly correlated with the axial length (R=-0.17, p=0.19). Conclusions: The retinal thicknesses of the central 4 cells and OFA were constant regardless of the axial length in young healthy eyes. Commercial Relationships: Takehiro Yamashita, None; Taiji Sakamoto, None; Yuya Kii, None; Minoru Tanaka, None; Kumiko Nakao, None Clinical Trial: UMIN000006040 Program Number: 3588 Poster Board Number: A0037 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Genome-wide scleral micro- and messenger-RNA profiling in the mouse myopia model Ravi Metlapally1, Hanna Park2, Kevin Wang1, Christopher C. Tan2, Jacob G. Light2, Machelle T. Pardue2, 3, Christine Wildsoet1, 4. 1 Optometry, UC Berkeley, Berkeley, CA; 2Ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; 3Rehab R&D Center of Excellence, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Atlanta, GA; 4Vision Science Graduate Group, UC Berkeley, Berkeley, CA. Purpose: miRNAs (micro-RNAs) play critical roles in normal physiological as well as disease processes. Recent studies implicated miRNAs in scleral remodeling and normal ocular growth. Through the modulation of scleral extracellular matrix genes, miRNAs have potential to be therapeutic scleral targets for myopia prevention/ retardation strategies. As a first step, genome-wide miRNA and mRNA (messenger-RNA) expression profiles in myopic and control eyes of mice were studied using microarray analyses. Methods: C57BL/6J mice (n=7, P28), reared under a 12 hr lightdark cycle, were form-deprived (FD) unilaterally for 2 weeks. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Refractive error and axial length measurements were made using photorefraction and 1310nm SD-OCT. Scleral RNA samples from FD and control eyes were processed for mirBASE version 19 miRNA (1279 miRNAs) and Affymetrix GeneChip Gene 2.0 ST (>28000 mRNAs) microarrays. Statistical analyses were performed using the NIA (National Institute on Aging) Array Analysis Tool. Briefly, raw data were background subtracted, log-transformed, normalized and average intensities as well as fold differences calculated. Group comparisons were made using ANOVA. Functional biological pathways were identified using WebGestalt software. Results: FD eyes showed myopic shifts in refractive error (mean interocular difference: -2.90 +/- 0.86D, p<0.05). Comparison of scleral RNA profiles for FD and control eyes revealed a total of 54 miRNAs and 261 mRNAs differentially expressed (fold change >1.25 fold in either direction, max FC=1.63 for miRNA, 2.7 for mRNA) (p<0.05, min p=0.0001). miRNAs of the let-7 family, previously implicated in matrix remodeling in other tissues, were upregulated in eyes developing axial myopia. Notable statistically significant (p<0.05) pathways showing over-representation of genes included intermediate filament organization, scaffold protein binding, detection of stimuli, calcium ion, G-protein, and photo-transduction pathways. Conclusions: A number of scleral mi- and m-RNAs showed differential expression linked to myopia in the mouse model, further supporting the involvement of miRNAs in scleral remodeling. The observed general trend of relatively small fold changes is perhaps indicative of a tightly controlled regulatory mechanism for scleral gene expression. Further validation and molecular studies aimed at understanding specific mechanisms related to myopia are planned. Commercial Relationships: Ravi Metlapally, None; Hanna Park, None; Kevin Wang, None; Christopher C. Tan, None; Jacob G. Light, None; Machelle T. Pardue, None; Christine Wildsoet, None Support: NIH-NEI K08EY022670 to RM, NIH-NEI R01016435 to MTP, NIH-NEI R01 EY012392 to CFW Program Number: 3589 Poster Board Number: A0038 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Spatial and temporal mapping of retinal sublayer and choroidal thicknesses in the chick using 3-dimensional segmentation with optical coherence tomography imaging Diane Nava1, 4, Akhila Raman1, Claudia Nieuwenhuis2, Anwar Nunez-Elizalde3, Christine Wildsoet1, 4. 1Vision Science Group, UC Berkeley, Berkeley, CA; 2Department of Computer Science, Technische Universität München, Garching, Germany; 3Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, UC Berkeley, Berkeley, CA; 4Center for Eye Disease and Development, UC Berkeley, Berkeley, CA. Purpose: Interest in changes in thickness of the retina (RT) and choroid (CT) has grown in myopia research, yet studies using animal models typically use A-scan ultrasonography (US), which is limited to on-axis measurements, and blockface photography, which precludes longitudinal tracking. This study sought to exploit in vivo spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) imaging to cover the latter deficiencies. Methods: Young chicks were fitted with either monocular +5 D single vision (SV) lenses or multifocal (MF) lenses with a +5 D peripheral defocus. For each eye, several overlapping rectangular and radial SD-OCT scans covering central and peripheral retina and choroid were collected (14x14 mm FOV, 100 b-scans, Bioptigen, NC). Scans were segmented to extract RT and CT using a custom automated algorithm or a manual segmentation software that uses defined boundaries from points projected from an 11 by 11 grid. The data were then reconstructed in 3D and smoothed using a pythonbased algorithm. 3D maps of overlapping scans were merged, after which the absolute nasal, temporal, superior and inferior fields were redefined using the angle of the pectin and the location of the area centralis (AC). Interocular and temporal thickness difference maps were obtained through registration. Data were compared to RT and CT from US, photographs of embedded blocks and 10 um vertical sections. Results: Peripheral choroidal thickening was detected in the MF group. RT and CT data obtained with our custom method were comparable to values obtained from manual calipers, US, blockface photography, and histological sections, with improved interobserver reliability and resolution. The retinal ganglion cell layer thickness maps show a peak superior and nasal to the tip of the pectin, consistent with histological data defining the AC, and served as a useful reference for validating segmentation algorithms and quantifying lens-induced regional CT changes. Conclusions: Our new methods for the visualization and quantification of chick SD-OCT data allows for fast and accurate characterization of point-to-point regional and temporal differences in RT and CT in vivo, providing valuable new insight into the effects of novel optical defocus manipulations, as well as ex vivo, providing a replacement for photography applied to blockfaces and histological sections. Commercial Relationships: Diane Nava, None; Akhila Raman, None; Claudia Nieuwenhuis, None; Anwar Nunez-Elizalde, None; Christine Wildsoet, None Support: NIH Grant EY12392, NIGMS Grant R25GM090110 Program Number: 3590 Poster Board Number: A0039 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Chick Retinal Pigment Epithelium Responds to Imposed Defocus in Minutes Yan Zhang, Albert Truong, Feng Zhao, Christine Wildsoet. Center for Eye Disease & Development, School of Optometry, Univ of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA. Purpose: We previously reported that gene expression of BMP2, 4, and 7 in chick RPE show differential regulation by optical defocus in as little as 2 hours, which suggest their involvement of RPE in the early stage of eye growth regulation. This study was conducted to further characterize the temporal profile of these defocus-induced BMP gene expression changes in the chick RPE Methods: White-Leghorn chicks wore monocular -10 or +10 D lenses from 14 days of age for 5, 15, 30 or 60 minutes. At the end of the lens treatment periods, chicks were sacrificed, eyes enucleated, RPE isolated and RNA extract. RNA was subjected to cDNA ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology synthesis and then qPCR. Expression levels for lens-treated eyes were compared to those of their fellow eyes Results: As reported previously, differences in BMP gene expression were detected in chick RPE samples from eyes subjected to positive (+) versus negative (-) lens treatments. With positive lenses, 5 and 30 min of wear was sufficient to up-regulate the gene expression of BMP2 and BMP4 in treated eyes respectively, with up-regulation also detected at the other 3 time points for BMP2 and 60 minutes treatment for BMP4. For 5, 15, 30 and 60 min of +lens treatment, BMP2 was up-regulated 2.0-fold (p < 0.05, n = 5), 3.4-fold (p < 0.05, n = 7), 11.3-fold (p < 0.01, n = 7), and 5.0-fold (p < 0.001, n = 7), respectively, while BMP4 was up-regulated 7.8-fold (p < 0.05, n = 7) and 2.9-fold (p < 0.05, n = 7) after 30 and 60 minutes of treatment respectively. In contrast, BMP7 did not show differential expression with these short 5-60 min +lens treatments, and nor was differential expression detected with 5, 30, and 60 min of -lens treatment for these three BMPs. A trend of down-regulation of BMP2 was observed after 60 minutes of -lens treatment (6 out of 8 birds), but curiously, this gene showed significant up-regulation at 15 minutes (2.5-fold, p < 0.05, n = 8) Conclusions: This study provides further evidence for the involvement of the RPE in eye growth regulation signaling cascades. The differences in the temporal profiles of gene expression changes induced by positive versus negative lenses, i.e., positive lenses inducing very rapid changes, suggest different pathways are involved. Finally, differences in the temporal profiles of the three genes studied - BMP2, 4 and 7, suggest that they are regulated differently. These proteins may interact synergistically across time during eye growth regulation Commercial Relationships: Yan Zhang, None; Albert Truong, None; Feng Zhao, None; Christine Wildsoet, None Support: NIH grants R01EY012392 (CFW), K08EY023609 (YZ), K12EY017269 (YZ) Program Number: 3591 Poster Board Number: A0040 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Quantitative analysis of tessellated fundus and its association with choroidal thickness in healthy eyes Naoya Yoshihara, Takehiro Yamashita, Yuya Kii, Minoru Tanaka, Kumiko Nakao, Taiji Sakamoto. Ophthalmology, Kagoshima University, Kagoshima, Japan. Purpose: To investigate the relationship between the tessellated fundus index (TFI) and choroidal thickness (CT) by the objective method. Methods: A prospective observational cross-sectional study comprised 100 right eyes of 100 healthy young Japanese participants. All participants (mean age 25.8 ± 3.9) underwent comprehensive ophthalmologic examination, including axial length, color fundus photograph. The subfoveal choroidal thickness (SFCT) and the nasal choroidal thickness (NCT) being located 750 μm nasal from the fovea were measured using enhanced depth imaging of Spectralis OCT. Fundus color between the fovea and the optic disc was quantified on digital color fundus photographs as a surrogate of the degree of the tessellated fundus using Image J. The TFIs was calculated as the ratio of mean red-green-blue (RGB) intensity. We used following three formula; TFI1: (R-G)/R, TFI2: R/(R+G+B), TFI3: (R-G)/(R+G+B). The relationship between the TFIs and the choroidal thickness and the axial length was investigated using linear regression analysis. Results: The mean axial length was 25.3 ± 1.4 mm. The all TFIs were significantly associated with the SFCT or NCT (R=-0.20 to -0.24, p<0.05). The correlation coefficients between the TFI2 and SFCT or NCT were higher than the correlation coefficients between the TFI1 or TFI3 and SFCT or NCT. However, all the TFIs were not significantly associated with the axial length. Conclusions: The degree of tessellated fundus was increased as the choroidal thickness decreased in young healthy eyes. Commercial Relationships: Naoya Yoshihara, None; Takehiro Yamashita, None; Yuya Kii, None; Minoru Tanaka, None; Kumiko Nakao, None; Taiji Sakamoto, None Clinical Trial: UMIN000006040 Program Number: 3592 Poster Board Number: A0041 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Is Retinal Shape different in Asians and Caucasians? Estimation from Peripheral Refraction and Peripheral Eye Length Methods Pavan K. Verkicharla1, David A. Atchison1, Marwan Suheimat1, Katrina L. Schmid1, Ankit Mathur1, Edward A. Mallen2, Xin Wei3, Noel A. Brennan3. 1School of Optometry & Vision Science, Institute of Health & Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia; 2School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Bradford, Bradford, United Kingdom; 3 Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc., Jacksonville, FL. Purpose: Race appears to be associated with myopiogenesis, with East Asians showing high myopia prevalence. Considering structural variations in the eye, it is possible that retinal shapes are different between races. The purpose of this study was to quantify and compare retinal shapes between racial groups using peripheral refraction (PR) and peripheral eye lengths (PEL). Methods: A Shin-Nippon SRW5000 autorefractor and a Haag-Streit Lenstar LS900 biometer measured PR and PEL, respectively, along horizontal (H) and vertical (V) fields out to ±35° in 5° steps in 29 Caucasian (CA), 16 South Asian (SA) and 23 East Asian (EA) young adults (spherical equivalent range +0.75D to −5.00D in all groups). Retinal vertex curvature Rv and asphericity Q were determined from two methods: a) PR (Dunne): The Gullstrand-Emsley eye was modified according to participant’s intraocular lengths and anterior cornea curvature. Ray-tracing was performed at each angle through the stop, altering cornea asphericity until peripheral astigmatism matched experimental measurements. Retinal curvature and hence retinal co-ordinate intersection with the chief ray were altered until sagittal refraction matched its measurement. b) PEL: Ray-tracing was performed at each angle through the anterior corneal centre of curvature of the Gullstrand-Emsley eye. Ignoring lens refraction, retinal co-ordinates relative to the fovea were determined from PEL and trigonometry. From sets of retinal co-ordinates, conic retinal shapes were fitted in terms of Rv and Q. Repeated-measures ANOVA were conducted on Rv and Q, and post hoc t-tests with Bonferroni correction were used to compare races. Results: In all racial groups both methods showed greater Rv for the horizontal than for the vertical meridian and greater Rv for myopes than emmetropes. Rv was greater in EA than in CA (P=0.02), with Rv for SA being intermediate and not significantly different from CA and EA. The PEL method provided larger Rv than the PR method: PEL: EA vs CA 87±13 vs 83±11 m-1 (H), 79±13 vs 72±14 m-1 (V); PR: EA vs CA 79±10 vs 67±10 m-1 (H), 71±17 vs 66±12 m-1 (V). Q did not vary significantly with race. Conclusions: Estimates of Rv, but not of Q, varied significantly with race. The greater Rv found in EA than in CA and the comparatively high prevalence rate of myopia in many Asian countries may be related. Commercial Relationships: Pavan K. Verkicharla, Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc. (F); David A. Atchison, Johnson & ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Johnson Vision Care, Inc. (F); Marwan Suheimat, Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc. (F); Katrina L. Schmid, Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc. (F); Ankit Mathur, Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc. (F); Edward A. Mallen, Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc. (F); Xin Wei, Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc. (E); Noel A. Brennan, Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc. (E) Support: Johnson & Johnson Vision Care, Inc. Program Number: 3593 Poster Board Number: A0042 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Identification of integrin receptor subunits in the guinea pig sclera Kevin Wang1, Ravi Metlapally1, Christine Wildsoet1, 2. 1School of Optometry, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA; 2Vision Science Graduate Group, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA. Purpose: Treatment for myopia, the result of excessive elongation of the globe, has been directed mostly at the symptoms and not at the core issue of elongation. The ocular dimensional changes reflect increased scleral remodeling, which is also associated with biomechanical weakening of the sclera. As integrins have been linked to scleral remodeling previously, they represent potential targets for myopia treatments aiming to slow ocular elongation. As a first step, this study aimed to characterize the integrin subunits in the guinea pig sclera, a common myopia model. Methods: Primers for α and β integrin subunits were designed using NCBI entries from a genome sequencing project, Primer3, and UCSC Genome Browser Bioinformatics. Total RNA was extracted from both intact scleral samples and fibroblasts cultured from guinea pig sclera. Reverse transcription was performed to produce cDNA and PCR used to amplify products of a predetermined size. Finally, PCR products were sequenced to confirm their identity. Results: PCR analysis of intact guinea pig scleral samples revealed twenty-four of the twenty-six known integrin subunits, corresponding to a possible twenty-two combinations of integrins, while only twenty-one of the twenty-six known subunits were detected in cultured scleral fibroblasts, allowing for nineteen potential integrin combinations. Specifically, scleral tissue expressed all known integrin alpha subunits except integrin αD and αE, which were also not expressed in scleral fibroblasts although expression of integrin αD and αE was confirmed in guinea pig liver. Integrins αL, αM, and αX were also not expressed in scleral fibroblasts. Both guinea pig scleral tissue and scleral fibroblasts expressed all known integrin beta subunits. All results were verified through sequencing. Conclusions: While the above results are similar to those of a previous study in the tree shrew, another popular myopia model, guinea pig sclera expressed all known mammalian beta integrin subunits while tree shrew sclera did not express β2-, β3-, β6-, and β7-integrin subunits. However, alpha integrin subunits found in tree shrew sclera were also found in guinea pig sclera. Data provided from this study will help guide future studies directed at understanding the relationship between scleral integrins and myopia. Commercial Relationships: Kevin Wang, None; Ravi Metlapally, None; Christine Wildsoet, None Support: T35EY007139 to KW, K08EY022670 to RM, R01EY012392 to CFW Program Number: 3594 Poster Board Number: A0043 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Changes in mRNA expression of Endothelial Growth Factor A, C, D and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 1, 2, 3 during induction of deprivation myopia in chickens Marita P. Feldkaemper, Frank Schaeffel. Centre for Ophthalmology, Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Tuebingen, Germany. Purpose: It was previously reported that the vascular epithelial growth factor inhibitor Bevacizumab can slow the development of deprivation myopia in chickens and suppress choroidal thickening that normally occurs during recovery from deprivation myopia (Mathis and Schaeffel, ARVO 2013). Furthermore, Sheng, Zhu and Wallman (ARVO 2012) found that VEGF isoform V165 can transiently thin the choroid in chickens. We have further studied the role of VEGF in myopia by measuring the choroidal expression of different VEGF isoforms and their receptors, both after long-term deprivation and during recovery from myopia. Methods: 7 days old White Leghorn chicks were treated with (a) diffusers for 8 days on both eyes but diffusers were removed on one eye one hour before choroidal tissue analysis, (b) no treatment except for that one eye was occluded 1 hour before tissue analysis, (c) unilateral diffuser treatment for 16 days, (d) unilateral diffuser treatment for 15 days followed by removal of a diffuser for one day (n= 6 chicks in groups a-d). Semi-quantitative real-time PCR was used to quantify mRNA levels of VEGFA (transcript variant 1 and 2), VEGFC, VEGFD, VEGFR1, VEGFR2 and VEGFR3. Beta-actin and HPRT served as reference genes. Results: Most mRNA levels of the VEGF isoforms were not changed during deprivation myopia. Only VEGFD mRNA was significnatly up-regulated after 16 days of diffuser wear with a 46% increase in normalized mRNA expression (paired t-test, p=0.02). Neither recovery for 1 hour or of 1 day had any effect of the mRNA expression of the various VEGF genes. Conclusions: Changes in choroidal mRNA expression levels (VEGF D) were evident only after long-term treatment of the chickens with diffusers. This growth factor might therefore either play a role in the maintainance of the myopic state or its induction is related to early degenerative processes in high myopia. Commercial Relationships: Marita P. Feldkaemper, None; Frank Schaeffel, None Program Number: 3595 Poster Board Number: A0044 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM The association between initial choroid thickness and subsequent ocular growth rate in young chicks: Evidence for different choroidal mechanisms in growth inhibition vs stimulation Kristen Totonelly, Xiaoying Zhu, Pearl Thai, Rinita Zanzerkia, Debora L. Nickla. New England College of Optometry, Boston, MA. Purpose: Thick choroids are associated with ocular growth inhibition and thin choroids with growth stimulation. Whether this is relevant to the mechanisms underlying the signal cascade that mediates scleral growth in response to visual or pharmacological stimuli is unknown. These studies asked whether choroid thickness in young chicks predicts subsequent ocular growth rates under various conditions. Methods: We determined the correlation between choroid thickness and subsequent ocular growth rate (scleral GAG synthesis for group 6) under the following conditions. (1) Plus lens-wear for 4 days (d) (n=14). (2) Minus lens-wear for 5 d (n=16). (3) Diffuser-wear for 5 d (n=16). (4) Fellow untreated eyes (n=53). (5) Daily injections of quinpirole (n=12), apomorphine (n=17), atropine (n=11), pirenzepine (n=10), or a single injection of oxotremorine (n=27). (6) Eyecups of RPE, choroid and sclera cultured for 24 hrs (n=9). Some of these data are retrospective. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Results: There was a negative correlation between initial choroid thickness and subsequent ocular growth rate in visual conditions in which eye growth was inhibited (plus lens: r=-0.662, p<0.01) and in untreated eyes (r=-0.393, p<0.005), but not when growth was stimulated (minus lens: r=0.08, p=0.72; diffusers: r=0.036, p=0.9). In untreated eyes and in eyes wearing diffusers or minus lenses there was also a correlation between initial choroid thickness and subsequent thinning (p<0.05); there was no such correlation for plus lenses. In eyecups, there was a negative correlation between choroid thickness and scleral GAG synthesis (r=-0.79, p<0.01). Drugs: There was a negative correlation between choroid thickness and growth rate in eyes injected with quinpirole (r=-0.72, p=0.008) but the data for apomorphine did not reach significance. There was no correlation for eyes injected with muscarinic agents. Conclusions: That initial choroidal thickness does not predict ocular growth rate under all conditions implies that thickness is not correlated with the efficacy of a mechanical barrier to a signal molecule. This is also supported by the negative correlation between thickness and quinpirole-mediated growth inhibition. Finally, the results support different roles for the choroid in growth stimulation vs inhibition. Commercial Relationships: Kristen Totonelly, None; Xiaoying Zhu, None; Pearl Thai, None; Rinita Zanzerkia, None; Debora L. Nickla, None Support: NIH EY013636 Program Number: 3596 Poster Board Number: A0045 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Gaze-Induced Axial Length Changes in Highly Myopic Eyes as Gauged by Magnetic Resonance Imaging Quan V. Hoang1, Jonathan Tang1, Julie Goldman1, Jane Y. Pan2, 1, Stanley Chang1. 1Ophthalmology, Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University, New York, NY; 2Methodist Girls’ School, Singapore, Singapore. Purpose: To determine if axial length changes occur in highly myopic eyes undergoing the stress and strain of normal eye movement. Methods: A prospective imaging study was performed on highly myopic patients (> 26 mm of axial length) with a clinical diagnosis of staphyloma. 3-D MRI scans were acquired while subjects gazed in 5 directions (primary, nasal 15°, temporal 15°, superior 10°, inferior 10°). Volume renderings were manually reoriented so that the plane of the limbus (the cornea-sclera interface) was normal to the plane of the screen. Four axial length measurements were taken at 90-degree rotations around the central axis and averaged for each eye in every gaze. Eye axial lengths at each eccentric gaze were compared to the axial length in primary gaze using a fixed effects regression allowing for person-specific and eye-specific effects (n = 40). Results: Axial lengths were unchanged in temporal gaze when compared to primary gaze (p = 0.89). Axial lengths shortened in nasal gaze (-0.07 mm, p = 0.04, 95% CI -0.148 to 0.008) and in superior gaze (-0.08 mm, p = 0.03, 95% CI -0.163 to 0.003). Axial lengths increased by +0.12 mm when changing from primary to inferior gaze (p = 0.001, 95% CI [0.043 to 0.196]). Linear regressions for individual patients demonstrated that the F-test of the axial length measured in the four gazes were jointly different from the axial length measured in primary gaze. This difference was significant at the p < 0.05 level in 33 out of 40 eyes (82.5%). Conclusions: Eye lengthening appears to occur only in inferior gaze, which is of interest given past clinical studies suggesting an association between excessive near work and myopia development and progression. Commercial Relationships: Quan V. Hoang, None; Jonathan Tang, None; Julie Goldman, None; Jane Y. Pan, None; Stanley Chang, Alcon (F) Support: NIH 5 KL2 TR 81-8 (QVH) and an unrestricted grant from Research to Prevent Blindness (New York, New York) Program Number: 3597 Poster Board Number: A0046 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Lack of oblique peripheral astigmatism in the chicken eye, comparison to the human eye and possible consequences for emmetropization Felix Maier1, Arne Ohlendorf2, Siegfried Wahl2, Frank Schaeffel1. 1 Institute for Ophthalmic Research, Section for Neurobiology of the Eye, Tuebingen, Germany; 2Institute for Ophthalmic Research, ZEISS Vision Science Lab, Tuebingen, Germany. Purpose: Primates display considerable off-axis astigmatism. In humans, its magnitude can be described by a parabolic function: astigmatism relative to the pupil axis = 3.28*10-3 * angle2 (Howland, 13th IMC in Tuebingen 2010). Howland also proposed that peripheral astigmatism may represent a cue for emmetropization, since either its tangential or radial axis are in better focus, depending on the spherical refractive error. It is known that the chicken eye emmetropizes independently in the center and the periphery but not whether it uses peripheral astigmatism. Methods: Infrared photorefraction was used to map out the refractions over the horizontal visual field, both in the vertical and horizontal meridians, in three 43 day old chicks (6 eyes) and three near emmetropic male human subjects (6 eyes, age 34.7 ± 6.8 years). Chicks were trained to accept that the operator turned their heads as desired by holding their beak. Videos were recorded and eye orientation and refractions were determined from the position of the first Purkinje image relative to the pupil center and the brightness slopes in the pupil. Human subjects were measured with a scanning photorefractor (Tabernero et al. 2009). Results: There was no significant difference in the amount of astigmatism in chicks and humans in the center of the visual field (0 deg: chicks -0.35±0.79 D, humans 0.65±0.60 D, p = 0.30). Similar to what was found by Howland, astigmatism increased in our subjects’ eyes to the periphery with the function: astigmatism = 2.21*10^-3*angle^2-0.0245*angle+1.589. Strikingly, in the chick eye astigmatism did not increase in the periphery. Highly significant differences were found in the peripheral astigmatism in humans and chicks (at 40 deg in the temporal visual field: humans 4.21±2.39 D, chicks -0.63±0.80 D, p < 0.001 (unpaired t-test) and at 20 deg in the nasal visual field: humans 3.69±1.16 D, chicks 0.74±0.44 D, p < 0.001; the trend is similar at 20 deg in the temporal visual field: humans 1.68±1.40 D, chicks 0.30±0.29 D, p = 0.07 and in the nasal visual field at 40 deg humans 5.17±3.71 D, chicks 0.78±0.11 D, p = 0.12). Conclusions: The chick eye is perhaps the first vertebrate eye without oblique peripheral astigmatism. While the optical design of the crystalline lens in the chick eye must be fascinating, the lack of peripheral astigmatism suggests that emmetropization cannot rely on it. Commercial Relationships: Felix Maier, None; Arne Ohlendorf, Carl Zeiss Vision International GmbH (E); Siegfried Wahl, Carl Zeiss Vision International GmbH (E); Frank Schaeffel, None Support: Werner Reichardt Centrum für Integrative Neurowissenschaften Pool Projekt 2012-12 ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 3598 Poster Board Number: A0047 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Blue light protects against temporal frequency dependent refractive changes Stephanie Britton, Stephan Hanowsky, Frances J. Rucker. Biomedical Science and Disease, New England College of Optom., Boston, MA. Purpose: A previous experiment indicated that chicks exposed to luminance flicker without blue light showed a hyperopic shift at higher temporal frequencies and a myopic shift at lower frequencies. In this experiment we test the hypothesis that blue light is important in emmetropization by comparing the response of chicks to luminance flicker with and without blue light over a range of temporal frequencies. Methods: 4-5 day old White Leghorn chicks were exposed daily for three days (9am to 5pm) to sinusoidal luminance modulation at 80% contrast, at one of six temporal frequencies: 0, 0.2, 1, 2, 5, 10 Hz. Luminance flicker “without blue” light was created with in-phase modulation of red and green, while “with blue” flicker was created with in-phase modulation of red, green and blue light. Mean illumination was 680 lux. Chicks were maintained in a dark chamber overnight. Changes in ocular components were measured before and after the experiment with a non-contact ocular biometer (Lenstar LS 900), and refractive error was measured with a Hartinger Coincidence Refractometer. Photokeratometry was used to calculate corneal astigmatism and images were analyzed with Image J. Results: Refraction, eye length, and choroidal changes were dependent on temporal frequency (p<0.03 all) and on the interaction between frequency and blue light (p<0.03 all). Without blue, refractions were more hyperopic with higher temporal frequencies, and more myopic at lower temporal frequencies. There was a hyperopic shift (> 1 D) at 5 and 10 Hz, and a myopic shift (> -0.6 D) at ≤2 Hz, and an increase in astigmatism along J45 (p=0.04). With blue light, refraction remained constant (mean change -0.24 D). Without blue light, there was less eye growth at high frequencies and more at low frequencies. Eyes were 145 mm shorter at 10 Hz than they were at 0.2 Hz (p<0.003), while with blue, they were only 77 mm shorter. Without blue light, anterior chamber depths were deeper (p=0.006), while choroids were thinner at low and intermediate temporal frequencies, contributing to the myopic shift at low frequencies. At 5 Hz, choroids thinned 46 mm more without blue light, than with blue light (p=0.03). Conclusions: Emmetropization shows a temporal, blue light sensitivity. Blue light protects against temporal frequency dependent refractive changes through modification of eye length, choroidal thickness, anterior chamber depth and corneal curvature. Commercial Relationships: Stephanie Britton, None; Stephan Hanowsky, None; Frances J. Rucker, None Support: New England College of Optometry Internal Research Award Program Number: 3599 Poster Board Number: A0048 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM The effect of near additions and prismatic lenses on accommodative micro-fluctuations in Chinese myopic children Huiling Lin1, 3, Drobe Björn2, 3, Lin Meng1, 3, Jin Wanqing1, 3, Chen Yunyun1, 3. 1School of Optometry and Ophthalmology, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China; 2R&D Optics Asia, Essilor International, Wenzhou, China; 3WEIRC (WMU-Essilor International Research Centre), Wenzhou, China. Purpose: To investigate the effects of near additions and prismatic lenses on accommodative micro-fluctuations and horizontal heterophoria in Chinese myopic children. Methods: 14 myopic children (SE: -0.75D to -3.75D) aged from 9 to 13 participated in the study. Accommodative micro-fluctuations and horizontal heterophoria were measured through multiple lenses by means of an open-field infrared autorefractor (WAM-5500, Grand Seiko Co., Ltd., Hiroshima, Japan) and modified Thorington technique. Tested lenses were additions (-1.00, 0, +1.00, +2.00 and +3.00D on each eye) and horizontal prisms (3ΔBI, 2ΔBI, 1ΔBI, 0, 1ΔBO and 2ΔBO on each eye). Lens order was randomized. During accommodation measurements, children were looking at RSVP (rapid serial verbal presentations) of Chinese characters at 25cm. Results: RMS (root mean square) of accommodative response increased significantly in the condition of -1.0D near addition (0.28±0.11D) compared to plano lens (0.18±0.06D, p<0.001). No significant difference in RMS was found between plano and positive addition lenses (p > 0.05), even though smaller RMS were found for +1.0D and +2.0D lenses (respectively 0.14±0.05D, 0.13±0.15D). No significant difference in RMS was found between prismatic lenses (p=0.22). Heterophoria decreased (more exophoric) with plus-power addition lenses (p<0.001) and increased with base-in prismatic lenses (p=0.038). RMS was found to be correlated with the phoria state (r = 0.345, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Over-correction resulted in higher accommodative micro-fluctuations while plus-power addition lenses and prismatic lenses had no influence on accommodative micro-fluctuations. Phoria decreased with plus-power addition lenses and increased with base-in prismatic lenses. Commercial Relationships: Huiling Lin, Essilor International (F); Drobe Björn, Essilor International (E); Lin Meng, Essilor International (F); Jin Wanqing, Essilor International (F); Chen Yunyun, Essilor International (F) Program Number: 3600 Poster Board Number: A0049 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Transient changes in choroidal thickness to different levels of imposed myopic defocus Jinhua Bao1, 3, Bjorn Drobe2, 3, Ke Chen1, 3, Hao Chen1, 3. 1School of Ophthalmology and Optometry, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China; 2R&D Optics Asia, Essilor International, Wenzhou, China; 3WEIRC, WMU-Essilor International Research Centre, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China. Purpose: To investigate short-term changes in choroidal thickness and other ocular biometrics to imposed myopic defocus in young adults. Methods: Ocular biometrics of thirteen myopic young adult subjects was measured before and after 60 minutes of exposure to monocular defocus (right eye) while watching movies on a 5.5m distant screen. Choroidal and retinal thicknesses were measured by means of Lenstar SD-OCT (Heidelberg Spectralis OCT; Heidelberg Engineering, Heidelberg, Germany) and axial length by Lenstar LS 900 optical biometer (Lenstar LS 900; Haag Streit AG, Koeniz, Switzerland). Four different monocular defocus conditions were tested, each on a separate day: control (no defocus) and myopic defocus (+1D, +3D and +5D defocus). The fellow eye was optimally corrected for distance (no defocus). Results: After 60 minutes, choroidal thickness of the right eye exhibited a significant increase only for +3D and +5D defocus conditions (mean change, +1D: +7.53±7.80μm, p>0.05; +3D: +12.51±11.23μm, p=0.002; +5D: +11.74±8.45μm, p<0.001). Retinal thickness exhibited no significant change with any myopic defocus conditions (mean change, +1D: -1.17±2.52μm, +3D: -1.93±1.99μm, +5D: -1.77±3.49 μm; p>0.1). Optical axial length decreased significantly only after +5D defocus condition (mean change, +1D: +2.13±9.67μm, p>0.1; +3D: -1.93±9.05μm, p>0.1; +5D: ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology -6.56±9.14μm, p=0.024). Choroidal thickness, retinal thickness and axial length of the left eye showed no significant change (p>0.05). Conclusions: Significant increase in choroidal thickness occurred in human subjects after 60 minutes of myopic defocus of 3D or more but not in axial length. Moreover, there is no evidence to support the notion that choroidal thickness elongation is proportional to the degree of myopic defocus. Commercial Relationships: Jinhua Bao, Essilor International (F); Bjorn Drobe, Essilor International (F); Ke Chen, Essilor International (F); Hao Chen, Essilor International (F) Program Number: 3601 Poster Board Number: A0050 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Comprehensive lesions of the retina surrounding the optic nerve enhance elongation and cause myopia in the guinea pig eye Sally A. McFadden, Callan Medcalf, Guang Zeng, John Holdsworth. Faculty of Science and IT, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia. Purpose: Disruption to detailed vision using form deprivation (FD) induces excessive eye elongation and myopia. The underlying mechanisms are local to the eye since FD myopia induces excessive growth after optic nerve section.1 Surprisingly, foveal photoablation does not inhibit FD myopia in young monkeys.2 However, the region around the optic nerve (the peripapillary zone or PPZ) expands early during myopia development and the overlying retina may carry the pertinent signals.3 We studied the effect of retinal photocoagulation lesions of the PPZ on both normal and myopic growth. Methods: Guinea pigs received FD alone (n = 16) or comprehensive PPZ lesions using multiple spots (laser strength of 100 mW for 50 ms, n = 9) the day prior to FD. FD involved wearing a diffuser over one eye from 6 to 13 days of age. PPZ lesions were also administered at the same age in a group not form deprived (n = 7). Refractive error (using a Nidek autorefractor after cycloplegia) and eye shape (based on retinal hemisections4) were assessed at the end of the rearing period. Results are presented as the relative differences between the two eyes. Results: FD alone resulted in –3.1D of relative myopia and 100 mm of relative eye elongation in the PPZ area with relative eye shrinkage (–47 mm) in the temporal retina. Greater myopia was observed after PPZ lesions combined with FD (–7.35D, 150 mm) and unlike normal FD, excessive growth also occurred in the mid periphery, particularly in nasal retina. PPZ lesions also induced relative myopia in animals not form deprived (–3.8D, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Retinal signals from the PPZ may be critical for normal refractive development and when eliminated, cause exaggeration of the central elongation so characteristic of myopic eyes. Without these signals, the eye also grows excessively in the periphery suggesting they are necessary for relative growth inhibition. 1. Smith EL et al. IOVS (2007), 48(9), 3914-3922. 2. Wildsoet CF, McFadden SA. IOVS (2010) 51 ARVO E-Abstract 1737. 3. Zeng G, McFadden SA. IOVS (2011) 52 ARVO E-Abstract 3923. 4. Zeng G et al. Vision Res. (2013), 76, 77-88. Commercial Relationships: Sally A. McFadden, None; Callan Medcalf, None; Guang Zeng, None; John Holdsworth, None Support: Port Waratah Coal Services, HMRI 13-23, UN NM G1300470, Ellex Medical Pty. Ltd. Program Number: 3602 Poster Board Number: A0051 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Longitudinal changes in corneal power and axial length in the Correction of Myopia Evaluation Trial (COMET) Cohort Mitchell Scheiman1, Li Deng3, Jane E. Gwiazda3, Qinghua Zhang2, Ruth E. Manny4, Karen D. Fern4, Eric Weissberg3. 1Coll of Optometry, Salus University, Elkins Park, PA; 2Department of Preventive Medicine, Stony Brook University Medical Center, Stony Brook, NY; 331 New England College of Optometry, Boston, MA; 4 College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX. Purpose: To describe changes in corneal power and axial length (AL) in the COMET cohort followed for 14 years, and explore the relationship between AL and corneal radius (CR) over this time period. Methods: 469 ethnically diverse, 6-11 year old children with -1.25 to -4.50 D of myopia were enrolled in COMET. Children wore either single vision (SVLs) or progressive addition lenses (PALs) for 5 years and were followed for an additional 9 years wearing PALs, SVLs, or contact lenses. Additionally, 206 non-myopic young adults matched by gender, ethnicity, and age with COMET myopes were recruited at the 12-year visit. Refractive error (cycloplegic autorefraction), corneal curvature (CC, auto-keratometry), and ocular component dimensions (A-scan ultrasound) were measured annually for COMET children, and once for the non-myopic, matched youngadult subjects. Linear mixed model was used to evaluate longitudinal changes based on all available records adjusting for covariates (gender, ethnicity, lens type, baseline age and baseline refraction). Unpaired t-test was used to compare myopes and non-myopes at the 12-year visit. The Pearson correlation coefficient (PCC) between AL and CC was computed at each visit. The comparison of PCCs between myopes and non-myopes at the 12-year visit was conducted using Fisher’s transformation. Results: Longitudinally, COMET girls had significantly steeper CC than boys (p<0.0001). Caucasians had the steepest CC, and Hispanics the flattest (p=0.001). The correlation between AL and CC was -0.70 (p<0.0001) at baseline and decreased to -0.53 (p<0.0001) at the 14year visit. The average AL to CR ratio (AL/CR) was 3.15 at baseline and increased to 3.31 at the 14-year visit. In the cross-sectional analysis, the correlation between AL and CC for the COMET myopes at the 12-year visit was lower than for the matched non-myopes (r =-0.57 vs.-0.76; p<0.0001). In addition, the AL/CR in myopes was significantly higher than in non-myopes (3.30 vs. 3.00; p<0.0001). Conclusions: These data demonstrate significant gender and ethnicity differences in average corneal curvature as myopia progresses. In addition, our findings suggest that as axial length continues to increase in myopic children the cornea may be incapable of further flattening, contributing to myopia progression. Commercial Relationships: Mitchell Scheiman, None; Li Deng, None; Jane E. Gwiazda, None; Qinghua Zhang, None; Ruth E. Manny, None; Karen D. Fern, None; Eric Weissberg, None Support: EY11756, EY11754, EY11805, EY11752, EY11740, and EY11755 Clinical Trial: NCT00000113 Program Number: 3603 Poster Board Number: A0052 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM The effects of the relative strength of simultaneous competing defocus signals on emmetropization in infant rhesus monkeys Baskar Arumugam1, 2, Li-Fang Hung1, 2, Chi-ho To3, Earl L. Smith1, 2. 1 College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX; 2Vision CRC, Sydney, NSW, Australia; 3Center for Myopia Research School of Optometry, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Hong Kong. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Purpose: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of dual focus lenses with unequal areas devoted to competing defocus signals on emmetropization in infant monkeys. Methods: The subjects were infant rhesus monkeys that, beginning at 3 weeks of age, were reared with Fresnel lenses that had unequal areas devoted to the two power zones. The treatment lenses had central 2 mm zones of zero power and concentric annular zones that had 33:66 area ratios for alternating powers of +3.0 D and 0 D (n=6; +3D/pl) or 66:33 ratios for powers of -3.0 D and 0 D (n=6; -3D/pl). The monkeys wore the treatment lenses over both eyes continuously until 153±3.4 days. Comparison data were obtained from monkeys reared with either dual focus lenses with approximately equal power areas (50:50 area ratios) or full field single vision lenses over both eyes (FF+3 D, n=6; FF-3 D, n=6). Refractive status, corneal power and axial dimensions were assessed every 2 weeks throughout the lens rearing period. Control data were obtained from 33 monkeys reared with unrestricted vision. Results: At the end of the treatment period, the median refractive error and average vitreous chamber depth for the +3D/pl lensreared monkeys were similar to those for animals reared with FF+3 D lenses (OD: +5.19 D vs +4.63 D, p=0.23 and 9.44±0.60 mm vs 9.58±0.32 mm, p=0.65) or similarly powered Fresnel lenses that had equal areas devoted to each power (OD: +5.25 D, p=1.0), but axially more hyperopic than those for control monkeys (OD: +2.50 D, p=0.0002; VC: 9.82±0.30 mm, p=0.03). On the other hand, for the -3D/pl monkeys, refractive development was dominated by the zeropowered portions of the lenses. The median refractive error for the -3D/pl monkeys was more hyperopic than that found in the FF-3D monkeys (OD: +2.94 D vs -1.19 D, p=0.02), but similar to that for monkeys reared with Fresnel lenses that had equal areas devoted to each power (OD: +3.13 D, p=0.94) and that observed in the control animals (p=0.24). Conclusions: The results demonstrate that even though the least hyperopic/most myopic power zones made up only about 1/3 of the surface area of the treatment lenses, their associated image planes dominated refractive development. Overall, the results indicate that imposing relative myopic defocus over a large part of the retina provides a strong signal for slowing eye growth. Commercial Relationships: Baskar Arumugam, None; Li-Fang Hung, None; Chi-ho To, Inventor (P); Earl L. Smith, Zeiss (P) Support: NIH Grants EY03611 and EY07551; Vision CRC Program Number: 3604 Poster Board Number: A0053 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Both Lens Induced Hyperopia and Recovery Increase the Amplitude of Diurnal Rhythm in Refractive Error Melanie C. Campbell1, 2, Kaitlin Bunghardt1, Marsha L. Kisilak1, 2, Elizabeth L. Irving2. 1Physics & Astronomy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada; 2School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada. Purpose: We have reported a larger amplitude of circadian variation in mean ocular refraction (MOR) in the previously goggled eye compared with the control eye on removal of positive or negative lenses. Here we compare the circadian rhythm present during lens induction of hyperopia in the goggled and control eyes with that following goggle removal. Methods: Short term changes in MOR were measured immediately before and after goggle removal following 6 days of emmetropization to lens induced hyperopia. Eleven birds, unilaterally treated with a +10D goggle on the day of hatching, were raised on a 14h/10h light dark cycle. On day 6, beginning at 8:30 am, Hartmann-Shack refractive error and A scan ultrasound axial length (to the retina) were measured every 4 hours, ending on day 9. The goggle was permanently removed after the 8:30am measurement on day 7. MOR was analyzed for the largest common pupil. Linear variations were subtracted and residual sinusoidal variations were fitted before and after goggle removal. Comparisons were made to previously presented results. Paired t tests were used, p≤0.05 for significance and if normalcy or equal variance tests failed, a Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test was performed. Results: On day 6 after partial emmetropization (+5.5D), sinusoidal amplitudes in goggled eyes vs control eyes were significantly larger for MOR and smaller for length. This implies a difference in the amplitude of power variation between goggled and control eyes. Control eyes were not different from eyes of control birds on day 6. Day 7 diurnal amplitudes for length and MOR after goggle removal were significantly larger than before removal. The eyes’ amplitudes no longer differed for length but MOR amplitude was larger in previously goggled eyes than in control eyes. Acrophases on days 6 and 7 for MOR of goggled eyes were significantly clustered, while those for control eyes were not (Rayleigh test). Conclusions: Unlike in previously reported emmetropization to -15D lenses, after 6 days, following incomplete emmetropization to +10D lenses, the amplitude of circadian rhythms differed in the control and goggled eyes. Nonetheless, following goggle removal, as for the -15D lenses, the amplitude of oscillation of mean ocular refraction in the treated eye increased. Circadian rhythms could provide enhanced signals to the direction of defocus both during goggling and following goggle removal. Commercial Relationships: Melanie C. Campbell, None; Kaitlin Bunghardt, None; Marsha L. Kisilak, None; Elizabeth L. Irving, Visioneering (F) Support: NSERC Canada Program Number: 3605 Poster Board Number: A0054 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Macrophage Activation Pattern in Human Myopic Choroidal Neovascular Membranes Khaled Nassar, El Shaymaa El Far, Julia Luke, Matthias Luke, Swaantje Grisanti, Salvatore Grisanti. Ophthalmology, Luebeck University, Luebeck, Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. Purpose: A little is known about the role of macrophages in myopic choroidal neovascular membrane (CNV) pathogenesis. The present study aimed to characterize the pattern of macrophage activation in CNV caused by degenerative myopia compared to that caused by age related macular degeneration (AMD). Methods: 20 surgically excised CNV derived from 15 AMD (5 classic and 10 occult CNV) patient and 5 patient with degenerative myopia were stained using CD68, CCR7 and CD163 antibodies staining for pan macrophages, classically activated macrophage (M1 macrophages) and alternatively activated macrophage (M2 macrophages); respectively. The immunopositive cell density was calculated per mm2 in 400x images. Results: All CNVs were untreated and subfoveally located. Macrophage infiltration was higher in the myopic CNV with a cell density of M: 268.4±117.78; M1: 137.8 ±189.5; M2: 453.6±313 cell/mm2. In classic AMD related CNV, the cell density of M macrophages were 251.6±72.8 cell /mm2, M1 macrophages: 131.4± 94.38, and M2 macrophages: 122.8±64.10 cell/mm2. In occult AMD related CNV, the cell density of M macrophages were 301± 159 cell /mm2, M1 macrophages: 167 ± 90 cell/mm2 and M2:167 ± 89 cell/ mm2. Alternatively activated macrophages were the dominant type in myopic CNV (p value: 0.043) and differ significantly from both classic and occult AMD CNV, (p value: 0.008, 0.01) respectively. Conclusions: Alternatively activated macrophages might play an important role in the myopic CNV pathogenesis. The identification of ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology different activation patterns may be important for distinct therapeutic strategies. Fig. 1 Macrophage polarized activation. A simplified view of immune and tissue-derived signals inducing classical (M1) and alternative (M2) macrophage polarized activation. The main functional effects on macrophage functions, molecular markers and effector molecules are schematically represented in both cases. Fig. 2 Immunohistochemical detection of macrophage phenotypes (M1 and M2). A) Photomicrographs of myopic CNV depicting CD 163 (M2) positive macrophages (black arrow). Vascular channels are seen within the fibrous part of the membrane. B) Photomicrographs of occult CNV depicting CCR7 (M1) positive macrophages (black arrow),in close relation to RPE cells, scale bare 20mm. Commercial Relationships: Khaled Nassar, None; El Shaymaa El Far, None; Julia Luke, None; Matthias Luke, None; Swaantje Grisanti, None; Salvatore Grisanti, None Support: This study was supported in part by the “Jung-Stiftung Für Wissenschaft und Forschung” Foundation, Hamburg; Germany. The authors indicate no financial conflict of interest. Program Number: 3606 Poster Board Number: A0055 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Eye Dimensions during Lens Induced Myopia (LIM) and Recovery in the Chick Zheng Shao1, 2, Kaitlin Bunghardt1, Marsha L. Kisilak1, 2, Melanie C. Campbell1, 2. 1Physics and Astronomy, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada; 2School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada. Purpose: The chick eye refocuses out of focus images, primarily through changes in ocular growth rates. We reported changes in eye power during recovery from lens induced myopia (LIM) in the chick eye. Here we analyze changes in eye dimensions in LIM and recovery. Methods: Nine Ross Ross chicks were unilaterally goggled (-15D) on the day of hatching. The goggle was removed on day 7. Retinoscopy and ultrasound were performed; measurements continued up to day 10 at 10 time points. Mean ocular refraction (MOR), axial length, the distance from the cornea to the back of the lens (CBL), lens thickness, and vitreous chamber depth (VCD) were measured; power changes were calculated. All data were fitted with linear functions of age, and paired t tests were performed. Results: During LIM, MOR of the goggled eye partially emmetropized (-11.3 D) to the goggle by day 7, primarily due to faster increases in VCD. The lengths and MORs predicted a -3.2 D power difference between treated and control eyes on day 7. The lens and CBL were significantly thicker in treated versus control eyes. After goggle removal, axial length, CBL, and lens thickness for the treated eye didn’t change significantly between days 7 and 8, while VCD decreased. Dimensions continued to increase in the control eye. Lens thickness was still significantly larger in the treated eye on day 8. Recovery from LIM was complete by day 9 and resulting dimensions did not differ significantly from the control eye for both days 9 and 10. Power decreased significantly between days 7 and 8 in the treated eye and relative to the control eye. After day 8, power of the treated eye didn’t change significantly while power of the control eye decreased, and they were not significantly different by day 9. Conclusions: By day 7 in LIM, the differences in axial length and MOR between eyes predict a slightly lower power in the goggled eye. The thicker lens and CBL are consistent with a small power decrease. During recovery, lens thickness and eye power, as well as length, are significantly different between treated and control eyes. Days 7 to 9, these properties do not change significantly in the treated eye but continue to change in the control eye. Differences between the treated and control eyes, in power and in dimensions, in addition to length, are present during LIM and recovery. After emmetropization is complete in recovery, none of the properties considered differ between the two eyes. Commercial Relationships: Zheng Shao, None; Kaitlin Bunghardt, None; Marsha L. Kisilak, None; Melanie C. Campbell, None Support: NSERC Canada Program Number: 3607 Poster Board Number: A0056 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Phase-dependent effects of brief periods of myopic defocus on the rhythms in axial length and choroid thickness in chicks Debora L. Nickla, Rinita Zanzerkia, Pearl Thai, Kristen Totonelly. Biosciences, New England College of Optometry, Boston, MA. Purpose: We have shown that the eye growth inhibition caused by 2-hr periods of myopic defocus is more effective when given during the mid-day than during the mid-night (Nickla & Totonelly, ARVO 2013). In this study we examined the effects of myopic defocus given at 4 times of day on the diurnal rhythms in eye length and choroid thickness. Methods: 12-d-old chicks wore monocular +10 D lenses for 2 hr periods at 5:30 am (“dawn”; n=11), 12:00 pm (“day”; n=8), 7:30 pm (“dusk”; n=11) or 12:00 am (“night”; n=6) for 5 d. Lights were on from 7:30 am-7:30 pm. Eyes were measured using ultrasound at the start, and at 6-hr intervals over 24 hrs on the last day (12pm, 6pm, 12am, 6am, 12pm). Refractions (RE) were measured on a Hartinger’s refractometer. To determine phase and amplitude, data from each eye was fit with a sine wave. Circular statistics were used for comparisons of phase. ANOVAs and Bonferroni post-hoc tests were used to determine between-group significance for growth changes. Results: Defocus during the day was more effective at inhibiting eye growth than at dawn or night (change/5d, X-C: ANOVA p=0.014; ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology -174 mm vs -84 mm and -82 mm; p=0.042, p=0.075 respectively; RE: 3.8 D vs 1.1 and 2.8 D; p<0.05). This was associated with a phasedelay in the rhythm in axial length compared to normal (6:30 pm vs 2:45 pm; p<0.05; 1-tailed t-test). By contrast, defocus at night caused a phase-delay in the rhythm in choroid thickness (compared to dusk and day: 3:15 am vs 12:45 am (p=0.05) and 1:00 am (p<0.05, 1-tailed t-test)). It also abolished the diurnal rhythm in axial length due to an “acute” growth stimulation from 12 am to 6 am (night vs day, dawn and dusk, respectively: 119 mm vs -18 mm, -15 mm, 10 mm; ANOVA p<0.001; p<0.01). This effect did not occur in eyes receiving “normal” vision at night (27 vs 119 mm; p=0.005), in which growth was inhibited (629 vs 774 mm/7d; p<0.0001). In exp. eyes, the amplitude of the choroid rhythm was larger than controls in 3 groups (day: 110 vs 51 mm; night: 91 vs 46 mm; dawn: 131 vs 69 mm; p<0.05). Conclusions: The greater efficacy of myopic defocus at mid-day is associated with a phase shift in the axial length rhythm, moving it towards the choroid rhythm. The lesser efficacy of defocus at night results from an acute stimulation of eye growth. These results have implications for future behavioral therapies involving light exposure to prevent myopia. Commercial Relationships: Debora L. Nickla, None; Rinita Zanzerkia, None; Pearl Thai, None; Kristen Totonelly, None Support: NIH-EY013636 Program Number: 3608 Poster Board Number: A0057 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Predicting refractive error from ocular biometrics using structural equation modeling Christopher A. Clark, Ann E. Elsner, Benjamin J. Konynenbelt. School of Optometry, University of Indiana, Bloomington, IN. Purpose: Previous work has shown that retinal differences may exist due to refractive error. As an example, total retinal thickness has been shown to be relatively thicker centrally and thinner peripherally for myopes compared to emmetropes. These differences may be due to effects from axial elongation or potential variables influencing refractive development. If these changes are correct, they should be able to predict refractive error in subjects. Methods: Eighty subjects had a battery of tests performed including axial length, corneal topography, anterior chamber depth, peripheral refraction, peripheral partial coherence interferometry, and SD OCT for retinal thickness. The group was randomly split into two groups of forty subjects, one for model development and the other for model testing. Two designs were developed to predict central refractive error. The first group was the complete model using all available data. The second model was completed using only retinal thickness changes including thicknesses from the total retina (TRT), outer nuclear layer (ONL), outer plexiform, inner nuclear layer (INL), and the inner plexiform layer/ganglion cell layer. The second model had no data from axial length, corneal topography, etc. Structured equation modeling was done through SPSS (IBM, Endicott, NY.) Results: Structural equation modeling using retinal layer thickness only to predict refractive error had an R2 = 0.273, P = 0.008. Layers contributing significantly to the model included the TRT, INL and ONL both centrally and peripherally. Using the full model, including the axial length, the model improved R2 = 0.698, P = 0.001. As expected, axial length was the primary contributor to the full model. Conclusions: Differences in retinal thickness can be used to predict refractive error. This suggests that these differences are associated with refractive error and are real changes being detected. It appears like both central and peripheral retinal thickness differences may be important. Longitudinal work is needed to determine whether these differences are due to changes in refraction or if they may directly be influencing refractive development. Commercial Relationships: Christopher A. Clark, None; Ann E. Elsner, None; Benjamin J. Konynenbelt, None Support: EY022064 Program Number: 3609 Poster Board Number: A0058 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Quality of life of patients suffering from pathological myopia: overview of their social and emotional environment David Gaucher1, 2, Claire Chartier3, Michel Weber4, Francois Malecaze5, Salomon Y. Cohen6, Eric H. Souied7, Nicolas Leveziel8. 1 NHC, University Hospital, Strasbourg, France; 2Strasbourg university, Strasbourg, France; 3Novartis Pharma, Rueil Malmaison, France; 4Ophthamic department, University hospital of Nantes, Nantes, France; 5Toulouse University, Toulouse, France; 6CIL, Paris, France; 7Paris Est University, Creteil, France; 8Poitiers Université, Poitiers, France. Purpose: Pathological myopia may affect 2 to 4% of the French adult population. The aim of this survey is to better understand patients suffering from pathological myopia through their experiences, the impact of the condition on their daily lives, their attitudes and beliefs. This exploration will enable us to better meet the needs and expectations of those suffering from this debilitating condition, which we assume has a significant impact on quality of life and social integration. Methods: This qualitative survey was conducted in France from November to December 2013. Twenty patients suffering from pathological myopia, i.e. patients with myopia over -8 dioptres were interviewed. The sample is representatively split by sociodemographic criteria such as gender, age and region. A quantitative survey in 75 patients is planned in January 2014 to assess the impact of complications in the personal and professional life. Semistructured interviews lasting approximately one hour allowed patients to speak freely about their experiences. A discussion guide has been devised, covering the daily lives of patients as well as their care and the history of their condition. Results: The first inference is that pathological myopia is a “nonvisible” disease with professional and personal impact, which is underestimated in circles. The second is the difficult everyday reality faced by myopic patients, owing to a lack of understanding on the part of the public and the depreciation of the skills and abilities of those suffering from pathological myopia. Such are the inferences drawn from the first interviews conducted. Consequently, patients are using strategies to conceal the disease in professional and personal circles, so as to avoid isolation, and rejection and stigma exist. Possible adaptation strategies are emerging as a result of the initial interviews, such as research by key resource persons and development of other senses, such as touch. Conclusions: This is the first in-depth study into the daily lives of people suffering from pathological myopia. It aimed to analyse their social and emotional environment. The results allow health professionals and general public to be alerted to the emotional and social difficulties experienced by these patients, which are perhaps underestimated by ophthalmologists. Commercial Relationships: David Gaucher, NOVARTIS (C); Claire Chartier, Novartis Pharma (E); Michel Weber, Novartis (C); Francois Malecaze, Novartis (C); Salomon Y. Cohen, Allergan (C), Bausch and Lomb (C), Bayer (C), Novartis (C), Th√©a (C); Eric H. Souied, Novartis (C); Nicolas Leveziel, Bayer (C), Novartis (C), Th√©a (C) ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 3610 Poster Board Number: A0059 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Right eyes are longer than left eyes: axial length findings from a large cataract cohort with consistent refractive findings from a large twin cohort Omar A. Mahroo1, 2, Pirro G. Hysi3, Obeda Kailani4, Juliet Thompson4, Christopher J. Hammond1, 3. 1Ophthalmology, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom; 2Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; 3Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom; 4 West Kent Eye Centre, Princess Royal University Hospital, London, United Kingdom. Purpose: Small inter-ocular differences exist in the incidence of certain conditions; for example, retinal detachments affect right eyes slightly more frequently. This cross-sectional study explored, in two large cohorts, whether right and left eyes differ in terms of axial length or myopia (both linked risk factors for retinal detachment). Methods: For the cataract cohort, axial lengths previously measured for 12,766 eyes of 8,195 consecutive patients over a 6.5 year period were analysed. Right and left eyes were compared (t test: paired for patients with measurements for both eyes; unpaired for those with measurements available for one eye). For the twin cohort, refractive error was compared between right and left eyes (paired t test) for 5,755 twin subjects from 3,199 families from the TwinsUK database. To adjust for relatedness within families, re-sampling was performed with one random member of each family (running 10,000 permutations). For 1,186 twins, eye dominance data were also available. Results: For 4,571 patients for whom axial lengths were available for both eyes, mean (SD) axial lengths were 23.55 (1.40) mm and 23.50 (1.40) mm for right and left eyes respectively (p=4.7x10-20). For 3,624 patients undergoing unilateral surgery, mean axial lengths were 23.56 (1.28 mm) and 23.47 (1.23) mm respectively (p=0.04). For twin subjects, right eyes were significantly more myopic than left eyes (p = 0.04). 65% of twin subjects for whom eye dominance data were also available were right-eye dominant. Although right eyes were on average more myopic for right eye dominant subjects, the laterality was reversed for left eye dominant subjects, but differences did not reach significance. Conclusions: Right eyes appear to be, on average, slightly, but significantly, longer than left eyes. Longer eyes tend to be more myopic and our refractive data were consistent with this. This represents a novel finding and, in terms of clinical significance, may explain the slight laterality imbalance in retinal detachments. An understanding of mechanisms underlying small differences in development of the two eyes would shed important light on the development of myopia; our finding that differences might be reversed for left eye dominant subjects suggests an interesting interaction with mechanisms driving eye dominance. Commercial Relationships: Omar A. Mahroo, None; Pirro G. Hysi, None; Obeda Kailani, None; Juliet Thompson, None; Christopher J. Hammond, None Support: Fight for Sight UK grants (OAM, PH); Wellcome Trust (CJH). TwinsUK also receives support from the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) BioResource Clinical Research Facility and Biomedical Research Centre based at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and King’s College London. Program Number: 3611 Poster Board Number: A0060 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Replication analysis of myopia-associated genes in Japanese cohort and in highly myopic patients using genome-wide association study Munemitsu Yoshikawa1, Kenji Yamashiro1, Masahiro Miyake1, 2, Maho Oishi1, Yugo Kimura1, Kyoko Kumagai1, Yumiko Akagi-Kurashige1, 2 , Hideo Nakanishi1, 2, Norimoto Gotoh1, 2, Nagahisa Yoshimura1. 1 Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan; 2Center for Genomic Medicine/Inserm U.852, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan. Purpose: Recently, two large consortium for myopia, Consortium for Refractive Error and Myopia (CREAM) and 23andMe, reported the results of genome-wide association analysis (GWAS) on spherical equivalent (SE) refractive error and myopia age of onset and found that 29 SNPs and 35 SNPs were associated with myopia in Caucasians, respectively. In this study, we analyzed the associations of these myopia-associated genetic loci on axial length (AL) and SE in Japanese. Methods: We included 3,248 Japanese healthy volunteers from the Nagahama Study and 500 Japanese unrelated highly myopic (AL^26mm) patients from Kyoto University Hospital. From the results of above two GWAS, 50 genes were seemed to have associations with myopia. To investigate and replicate these associations in Japanese, we conducted 2 quantitative trait locus (QTL) analyses using the Nagahama cohort and 1 GWAS using both cohorts. The QTL analyses were conducted on AL and SE and GWAS was conducted on the existence of high myipia. We genotyped 3,248 healthy volunteers using either Illumina OmniExpress2.5M or HumanHap610K, and GWAS was conducted on the existence of high myopia using either HumanHap550K or HumanHap660K. For each analyses, VEGAS (Versatile Gene-based Association Study) program were applied to perform gene-based association tests on myopiarelated 50 genes. Results: In our 2 QTL analyses and 1 GWAS, only 4 genes (RASGRF1, BMP4, GJD2, and CACNA1D) showed statistical significance in all three analyses and 7 genes (B4GALNT2, SH3GL2, SETMAR, ADAMTSL1, BICC1, SFRP1, and TOX) showed statistical significance in two of the three analyses, whereas 27 genes did not show significance in any of our study. In GWAS on high myopia, 17 genes showed statistical significance. However, only 6 genes showed statistical significance in QTL analyses on AL and SE among these 17 genes, respectively. On the other hand, QTL analyses on AL and SE showed statistically significant 11 genes each, and as many as 8 genes had statistical significance among these 11 genes in common. Conclusions: For previously reported myopia-related genes, we showed the results of gene-based tests on AL, SE, and existence of high myopia in our study cohort in Japan. Our data suggests that the genetic background of Caucasians and that of Japanese for myopia, and that of myopia and high myopia, could be different. Commercial Relationships: Munemitsu Yoshikawa, None; Kenji Yamashiro, None; Masahiro Miyake, None; Maho Oishi, None; Yugo Kimura, None; Kyoko Kumagai, None; Yumiko AkagiKurashige, None; Hideo Nakanishi, None; Norimoto Gotoh, None; Nagahisa Yoshimura, None ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 3612 Poster Board Number: A0061 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Guinea pig optic nerve head Lisa A. Ostrin1, Christine Wildsoet2. 1College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX; 2School of Optometry, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA. Purpose: The guinea pig is becoming an increasingly popular model of human myopia. The goal of this study was to characterize and compare the optic nerve head (ONH) and sclera of the guinea pig with other animal models of human myopia and glaucoma. Myopia carries an increased risk of glaucoma. The lamina cribrosa (LC) of the ONH has been implicated as a site of axon damage in glaucoma and in many species, is continuous with the sclera. It is plausible that it is also abnormal in myopia. Methods: Pigmented and albino guinea pig eyes (n=18, ages 2-3 months) were enucleated and the ONH and surrounding sclera dissected. After formalin fixation, four eyes were paraffin embedded for hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Four eyes were cryoprotected and frozen for immunostaining. Primary antibodies included collagen types I-V, elastin, fibronectin and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Remaining eyes were fixed in 2% gluteraldehyde. Two ONHs were stained with osmium tetroxide (OsO4) and embedded in resin for transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Eight ONHs underwent alkali maceration with 10% NaOH to remove cellular tissue, before staining with OsO4 and dehydration for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to evaluate the fiber organization. Results: H&E-stained sections showed retinal ganglion cell axons organizing into fascicles in the prelaminar and laminar region. Immunostained sections revealed collagen types I, III, IV and V in the ONH, as well as elastin, GFAP and fibronectin. SEM revealed the scleral canal to have a well-defined LC with radially-oriented collagen beams, with spaces between presumably occupied by ganglion cell axons and other support cells in the intact ONH. TEM images confirmed the latter, revealing collagen fibrils surrounding non-myelinated nerve bundles in the LC region, with myelination and decreased collagen posterior to the LC. Adjacent sclera was composed of crimped collagen fibers in a crisscross arrangement. The sclera and LC were qualitatively similar in structure in pigmented and albino guinea pigs. Conclusions: Unlike mice, another rodent model for myopia and glaucoma, the ONH of guinea pig includes a radially-organized, collagen-based LC, similar to that of the tree shrew, but different from primates in which organization is a porous collagenous meshwork. Nonetheless, the overall structural similarity of the LC suggests that the guinea pig is a suitable model for investigating the relationship between myopia and glaucoma. Commercial Relationships: Lisa A. Ostrin, None; Christine Wildsoet, None Support: NIH 5K08 EY022696, NIH R01 EY12392 Program Number: 3613 Poster Board Number: A0062 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Spectral-domain optical coherence tomography imaging of the retinal pigment epithelium in myopic choroidal neovascularization Laura Dell’Arti1, 2, Diego Vezzola1, Giulio Barteselli1, 3, Chiara Mapelli2, Eleonora Benatti1, 2, Francesco Viola1, 2, Roberto Ratiglia1, 2. 1 University of Milan, Milan, Italy; 2Ophthalmology, clinical sciences and community health, Fondazione IRCCS Ca Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy; 3Ophthalmology, Shiley Eye Center UCSD, San Diego, CA. Purpose: To analyze the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) appearance of inactive myopic choroidal neovascularization (CNV) with spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and to evaluate its association with the lesion size and the treatment duration. Methods: We retrospective reviewed imaging studies of eyes with inactive myopic CNV after successful treatment. Imaging included infrared reflectance (IR), fundus autofluorescence (FAF), fluorescein angiography (FA), indocyanine green angiography, and spectraldomain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Patients were divided into two groups. Group 1 showed uniformity of the RPE (defined as continuous and highly reflective layer on SD-OCT) over the CNV, while group 2 showed an irregular RPE (defined as disrupted and poorly reflective layer on SD-OCT). The presence of perilesional hyper-reflective ring (PHR) in IR imaging was determined; the major diameter (MajD), the minor diameter (MinD) and the area of the lesion (A2) in early FA images were measured using the built-in caliper of the SD-OCT device. The number of treatments performed before CNV stabilization was assessed for every patient. Results: Eighty-one eyes of 72 patients were included. Group 1 and group 2 included 27 and 54 eyes, respectively. MajD, MinD and A2 of the CNVs were significantly lower in group 1 than in group 2 (p<0.001). Group 2 patients needed greater number of treatments than group 1 patients (p<0.01). The presence of a PHR was detected more frequently in group 1 than in group 2 (p<0.01). Binary regression analysis showed that the only predictor for the presence of a uniform RPE after successful treatment was the size of the CNV. Conditional selection of variables showed that the best regression model for the presence of a regular RPE after successful treatment included size of the lesion and presence of the PHR. Conclusions: The uniformity of RPE and the presence of PHR turned out to be good prognostic factors for myopic CNVs. Size of myopic CNV influences the development of a uniform RPE over the lesion and, consequently, can condition the prognosis of the disease. Commercial Relationships: Laura Dell’Arti, None; Diego Vezzola, None; Giulio Barteselli, None; Chiara Mapelli, None; Eleonora Benatti, None; Francesco Viola, None; Roberto Ratiglia, None Program Number: 3614 Poster Board Number: A0063 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Contribution of body length on axial length during normal eye development in C57BL/6J and 129S1/SvJ wild-type mouse strains. Ranjay Chakraborty1, 2, Hanna Park1, 2, Christopher C. Tan1, 2, Megan Prunty1, 2, Machelle T. Pardue2, 1. 1Ophthalmology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA; 2Rehab R&D Center of Excellence, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Atlanta, GA. Purpose: To determine the influence of body length on eye length in two different wild-type (WT) mouse strains during normal eye development. Methods: Measurements of body length, axial length, and refraction were retrospectively analyzed for two different WT mouse strains: 129S1/SvJ (n=6) and C57BL/6J (n=8) from 4 to 16 weeks of age. Body length, from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail were taken from digital images using image analysis software (ImageJ). Axial length (using an average refractive index of 1.433 for the entire eye) and refractions were measured using a 1310 nm spectral domain OCT (Bioptigen, Inc.) and an infrared photorefractor, respectively. To elucidate the effect of body length on eye length between strains, axial length was divided by the body length (eye/body length ratio) for all animals. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Results: Body length increased significantly with age for both strains (p<0.001). C57BL/6J mice had significantly larger body length (average at 10 weeks, 8.60 ± 0.21 cm) compared to 129S1/ SvJ (8.31± 0.13 cm) mice (p=0.011). Axial length also increased significantly during the development period (p<0.001). However, it was not found to be significantly different between the two strains across age (average at 10 weeks, 3.24 ± 0.07 and 3.26 ± 0.05 mm for C57BL/6J and 129S1/SvJ respectively). After normalizing to body length, 129S1/SvJ exhibited a significantly larger eye/body length ratio (average at 10 weeks, 0.039 ± 0.001) compared to C57BL/6J (average at 10 weeks, 0.037 ± 0.001) at all ages (p=0.025). Similar to body length, crystalline lens thickness normalized to body length significantly changed across both strains (129S1/SvJ > C57BL/6J, p<0.05). Four week old 129S1/SvJ (-4.92 ± 2.37 D) mice had significantly greater myopic refractions than C57BL/6J mice (+3.80 ± 1.45 D; p<0.001), but both strains reached similar hyperopic refractions by 14 weeks of age. A significant negative association was observed between the eye/body length ratio and refraction for all mice across both strains (slope = -0.0001, r 2 = 0.16, p<0.001). Conclusions: Body length significantly influences axial length in different mouse strains during development. The ratio of eye length to body length is important to refractive development, but not the only predictor of refractive error in mice. Commercial Relationships: Ranjay Chakraborty, None; Hanna Park, None; Christopher C. Tan, None; Megan Prunty, None; Machelle T. Pardue, None Support: NIH EY016435 (MTP), NIH P30 EY006360, Research to Prevent Blindness, and the Department of Veterans Affairs 423 Anatomy Development Wednesday, May 07, 2014 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Exhibit/Poster Hall SA Poster Session Program #/Board # Range: 4439–4472/D0099–D0132 Organizing Section: Anatomy/Pathology Contributing Section(s): Retinal Cell Biology, Retina, Visual Psychophysics / Physiological Optics Program Number: 4439 Poster Board Number: D0099 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Retinoic Acid Regulates Neural Crest Migration and Proliferation in Eye Development Bahaar Chawla, Brenda L. Bohnsack. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI. Purpose: Retinoic acid (RA) is an essential morphogen that is required for eye development. We previously demonstrated that RA regulates formation of neural crest (NC)-derived ocular structures in zebrafish. In the current studies, we further elucidated the role of RA in regulating NC migration and proliferation. Methods: Morpholino oligonucleotides (MO) were used in combination with exogenous regulators of retinoic acid (RA). Time-lapse imaging of transgenic zebrafish expressing GFP in NC assessed migration. Embryos were harvested for in situ hybridization, immunostaining, TUNEL assay, and histology. Results: Genetic disruption of RA synthesis (Raldh2 MO) or degradation (Cyp26c1 MO) inhibited early migration from 12-24 hours post fertilization (hpf) of the ventral wave of NC which gives rise to the jaw and periocular mesenchyme. NC passage through the ocular fissures into the developing eye (24-60hpf) was also disrupted in both Raldh2 and Cyp26c1 knockdown embryos. To determine if this later stage of NC migration was inherently dependent on RA or if the lack of early migration disrupted further NC development, pharmacologic treatment with all-trans RA or the aldehdehyde dehydrogenase inhibitor (DEAB) was initiated after completion of early NC migration (24hpf). Neither increased (all-trans RA) nor decreased (DEAB) RA levels inhibited NC migration through the ocular fissures demonstrating that RA was not intrinsically required for this later stage of migration. On the other hand, tight control of RA was necessary for NC organization around the lens and iris stromal formation at 48-60hpf. Since RA was not essential for migration from 24-48hpf, additional studies determined if RA regulated proliferation and survival. All-trans RA significantly decreased NC and retinal proliferation compared to controls while DEAB significantly increased the percent of cells in S-phase. In addition, increased or decreased RA levels resulted in increased NC and retinal apoptosis in the developing eye. Conclusions: Tight control of RA was essential for specific cellular functions during different stages of eye development including early NC migration, later NC and retinal proliferation and survival, and finally NC organization and differentiation. Commercial Relationships: Bahaar Chawla, None; Brenda L. Bohnsack, None Support: K08EY022912-01, Research to Prevent Blindness Career Development Award Program Number: 4440 Poster Board Number: D0100 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Mitochondrial Dysfunctions in Extraocular Muscles and Optic Nerves of Moebius Syndrome Mones S. Abu-Asab, Yujuan Wang, Chi-Chao Chan. Lab of Immunol/ Sect of Immunopath, National Eye Institute, Bethesda, MD. Purpose: Moebius syndrome is an extremely rare congenital neurological disorder of unknown etiology that primarily affects the 6th (abducens) and 7th (facial) cranial nerves causing motionless face and lateral immobility of the eyes. We have undertaken an ultrastructural approach to examine a case of Moebius syndrome in order to uncover the affected cellular organelles within the muscles and nerves as well as to infer their related biochemical pathways. Methods: A postmortem ultrastructural examination was performed on 12 extraocular muscles, two optic nerves, and a superior oblique nerve of a Moebius patient. The patient was a 64 year old Caucasian woman with bilateral facial nerve palsy and partial abducens palsy. During the last 6 years of her life, she had bilateral ectropion, mapdot-fingerprint dystrophy, cataract, keratitis, lagophthalmos, and poor vision. The tissues were prepared for transmission electron microscopy. Results: All muscle fibers were punctuated with lipid droplets of various sizes. Mitochondria were abnormal in all specimens showing various degrees of edema, enlargement, dislocation, and disintegration of internal membrane and cristae; some mitochondria had internal lipid accumulation. Three different types of mitochondrial dysfunctions were identified in the extraocular muscles and nerves. Mitochondria with internal lipid accumulation pointed out to a dysfunctional beta-oxidation pathway, the main fat breakdown process of the cell. There were giant mitochondria that have been transformed into large aqueous storage vesicle, which was indicative of a dysfunctionality of a tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle enzyme. The third type of dysfunction is related to the second and was inferred from the numerous fat droplets within the muscle fibers. Accumulation of lipid droplets within the cytoplasm results from the excessive production of acetyl-Co-A in the mitochondria and their inability to metabolize it through the TCA cycle. Excess of acetylCo-A exits the mitochondria and is utilized in the cytoplasm for fatty acid synthesis. Conclusions: The extraocular muscles as well as optic and lateral nerves of the Moebius patient exhibited three types of mitochondrial ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology dysfunctions that occurred within the TCA cycle and beta-oxidation pathway. Such biochemical aberrations within the mitochondria suggest the possibility that Moebius syndrome etiology may be mitochondrial in origin. Commercial Relationships: Mones S. Abu-Asab, None; Yujuan Wang, None; Chi-Chao Chan, None Support: N/A Clinical Trial: N/A Program Number: 4441 Poster Board Number: D0101 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Rat Eyelids, Meibomian Glands, and Glands of Zeis Have Gastrin Receptors Mortimer Lorber. Pharmacology & Physiology, Georgetown Univ School of Medicine, Bethesda, MD. Purpose: In ARVO 2013, we showed that rat exorbital lacrimal glands have gastrin receptors. Might this also be true for the contents of their eyelids? Methods: Upper llids of 3 male and 2 female rats were excised and formalin-fixed. Immunohistochemistry employed a rabbit polyclonal antibody from Alamone Labs in Jerusalem against the gastrin receptor, CCKBR. This antibody reacted with rat tissues. A 1:500 dilution in buffered saline, pH 7.4, was used. The positive control was the rat stomach whose parietal cells were stained. The negative control omitted the primary antibody. Results: All major eyelid tissues stain. The nuclei of the entire palpebral conjunctiva stain intensely; their cytoplasm slightly to moderately. Goblet cell nuclei stain intensely but their mucus is unstained. Nuclei of the eyelid epidermis stain from slight to moderately and their cytoplasm moderately. Nuclei of the meibomian glands generally do not stain, but some are dark. Their cytoplasm stains slightly to moderately. The Glands of Zeis are near the eyelash follicles whose nuclei stain intensely, as do the basal and lower stratum granulosum cells of the epidermis whose cytoplasm stains prominently. The nuclei of the Glands of Zeis stain slightly or moderately; their cytoplasm slightly. Myoepithelial cell nuclei stain less than their cytoplasm. Nuclei of CT fibroblasts stain intensely, but their cytoplasm only slightly. Conclusions: Immunoreactive gastrin is abundant in the rat eyelid. Its presence in rat lacrimal glands which provide aqueous fluid, and in meibomian glands and glands of Zeis which provide lipids indicates that gastrin is needed for both major components of tears. However, gastrin’s action or mechanism of action may differ among these glands. Gastrin is present throughout the duct system of the exorbital lacrimal gland, but is in the acini of the eyelid glands whose duct systems appear shorter than that of the rat exorbital lacrimal gland. Commercial Relationships: Mortimer Lorber, None Program Number: 4442 Poster Board Number: D0102 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Observation of Whole-mount Meibomian Glands from Cadaveric Eyelids using a Fructose-based Optical Clearing Agent Masataka Ito1, Rika Shirakawa2, Reiko Arita4, Yoko Karasawa3, Junko Imaki1, Shiro Amano2, Ysushi Kobayashi1, Masaru Takeuchi3. 1 Developmental Anatomy, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa, Japan; 2Ophthalmology, Tokyo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan; 3Ophthalmology, National Defense Medical College, Tokorozawa, Japan; 4Ophthalmology, Itoh Clinic, Saitama, Japan. Purpose: The chronic dysfunction of meibomian glands known as meibomian glands dysfunction (MGD) is one of the causes of dry eye syndrome and is known to be related to aging. Meibomian glands are clinically observed using meibography, however, those in formalinfixed cadavers are difficult to be observed in whole-mount because of the stiffness and decreased transparency of the eyelids. A recently-developed method using fructose-based optical clearing agent (SeeDB method) enabled observation of the deep structures of the brain in formalin-fixed experimental animals. We applied this method to human meibomian glands. The purpose of this study was to establish the methods to observe the morphology of whole-mount meibomian glands of the formalin-fixed cadaveric eyelids. Methods: All cadavers were perfused by 3.3% formalin in 67% ethanol within 4 days after death and stored in the same fixative more than 6 months. 13 upper eyelids were dissected from 9 cadavers (69to 98-year-old, male and female). After skin and subcutaneous tissues were manually removed, the samples were serially incubated in 30%, 60% and 80% (wt/vol) fructose each for 12–24h at room temperature. Samples were then incubated in SeeDB (80.2% wt/wt fructose) for 24h at 37°C. Between each step, samples were observed by a dissecting microscope under transmitted light. Photographs of the glands were taken by a digital camera and the contrast between the glands and surrounding connective tissues were compared. In some cases, observation with meibography was performed. Results: In cadaveric eyelids, tarsal plates were best cleared by overnight incubation with 80% fructose solution, but 24h incubation in SeeDB decreased the contrast of the glands. Observation with meibography could be done after clearing process with fructose, and the degeneration of the gland could be scored (meiboscore) in all cases tested. Conclusions: The fructose-based optical clearing agent successfully cleared the palpebral tissues and enhanced the contrast of meibomian glands in cadavers. This method could be applied for the evaluation of the morphology of meibomian glands in formalin-fixed human eyelids. Commercial Relationships: Masataka Ito, None; Rika Shirakawa, None; Reiko Arita, None; Yoko Karasawa, None; Junko Imaki, None; Shiro Amano, None; Ysushi Kobayashi, None; Masaru Takeuchi, None Support: NDMC Grant Program Number: 4443 Poster Board Number: D0103 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Comparative Anatomy of Avian Ciliary Muscles in Owls Charles S. Schobert, Richard R. Dubielzig. Dept of Pathobiological Sciences, UW-Madison School of Vet Med, Madison, WI. Purpose: Compare the anatomy of avian ciliary muscles with particular attention to the order Strigiformes and the Tawny Frogmouth of the order Podargiformes and speculate how the anatomy might reflect the environmental and behavioral niche. Methods: Cases were selected from the archive of the Comparative Ocular Pathology Laboratory of Wisconsin (COPLOW). Five-micron H & E sections were examined. Crampton’s muscle and Brücke’s muscle were identified. Length and area of the muscles were measured. We could not reliably identify Müller’s muscle. Results: In the majority of birds examined both muscles were present and no clear pattern of relative size could be detected. We measured length and area of Crampton’s and Brücke’s in a variety of species and discovered that even within the same order there was wide variation. In four species of owls (Strigiformes, family Strigidae) examined, a Crampton’s muscle is evident but no Brücke’s muscle. In contrast, a fifth owl species examined was the Barn owl (Tyta alba), which has a vestigial Brücke’s muscle in addition to Crampton’s. Barn owls are in ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology the family Tytonidae, while all other “typical” owls are in the family Strigidae. We also examined the Tawny Frogmouth (Podargus strigioides), a nocturnal raptor, of the order Podargiformes. It has a Crampton’s muscle as well as a vestigial Brücke’s. Conclusions: Owls do not have a Brücke’s muscle and, therefore lack lens accommodation, relying on corneal accommodation. Corneal accommodation may be accomplished by contraction of Crampton’s muscle, resulting in an increased curvature of the axial cornea. We speculate that the lack of Brücke’s might be a consequence of the relatively round lens, relatively large globes, or a relatively large scleral ossicle. The Barn Owl and Frogmouth have a vestigial Brücke’s. These birds are closely related to the true owls, are also nocturnal predators and also have a relatively round lens and a robust ossicle. Commercial Relationships: Charles S. Schobert, None; Richard R. Dubielzig, None Program Number: 4444 Poster Board Number: D0104 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Comparative Anatomy of Avian Ciliary Muscles Among Underwater Sight Hunters Richard R. Dubielzig, Kari Musgrave, Charles S. Schobert. Pathobiol Sciences, Univ of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI. Purpose: Compare the anatomy of avian ciliary muscles in birds with attention to birds that use their eyes for underwater hunting and how that ocular anatomy reflects the environmental and behavioral niche. Methods: Cases were selected from the archive of the Comparative Ocular Pathology Laboratory of Wisconsin (COPLOW). Five micron H & E sections were examined. Crampton’s muscle and Brücke’s muscle were identified. Length and area of the muscles were measured. We could not reliably identify Müller’s muscle. Results: Crampton’s muscle was absent in 5 species of penguins. (Sphenisciformes), cormorants (Pelecaniformes), loons (Gaviiformes), and puffins (Charadriiformes). However, a robust Brücke’s muscle was present in all these underwater sight hunters. In the majority of birds examined both muscles were present and no clear pattern of relative size could be detected. Conclusions: These results suggest that birds that hunt underwater do not have corneal accommodation. These birds also have relatively flat corneas making the ocular optics nearly the same above and below water. We speculate the flat corneal is suspended from limbal sclera that is uniquely rigid and these two features make corneal accommodation impossible, hence Crampton’s muscle is not needed. These underwater sight hunters are not closely related species. Some of these birds have close relatives with a terrestrial life-style that have a robust Crampton’s. This supports the conclusion that absence of Crampton’s in these birds is an example of convergent evolution. Commercial Relationships: Richard R. Dubielzig, None; Kari Musgrave, None; Charles S. Schobert, None Program Number: 4445 Poster Board Number: D0105 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Anatomical Manifestations of Primary Blast Ocular Trauma Observed in an Ex Vivo Porcine Model William E. Sponsel1, 2, Matthew A. Reilly1, Brian J. Lund3, Walter Gray4, Richard Watson1, 5, Sylvia L. Groth6, Randolph D. Glickman7, 1 , Kimberly Thoe8. 1Biomedical Engineering, UTSA, San Antonio, TX; 2Visual Science, Rosenberg School of Optometry; UIW, San Antonio, TX; 3U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research, JBSA Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, TX; 4Geological Sciences, UTSA, San Antonio, TX; 5Biodynamic Research Corporation, San Antonio, TX; 6Ophthalmology, Presence St. Francis Hospital, Evanston, IL; 7 Ophthalmology, UTHSCSA, San Antonio, TX; 8Glaucoma Service, WESMDPA, San Antonio, TX. Purpose: To qualitatively describe the anatomic features of primary ocular blast injury observed using an in vitro porcine eye model. Porcine eyes were exposed to various levels of blast energy to determine the optimal conditions for future testing. Methods: Fifty-three (53) enucleated porcine eyes were studied; 13 control eyes and 40 test eyes exposed to a range of blast overpressure levels. Eyes were pre-assessed with B-scan and UBM ultrasonography, photographed, mounted in gelatin within acrylic orbits, and monitored with high-speed videography during blasttube impulse exposure. Post-impact photography, ultrasonography, and histopathology were performed and ocular damage was assessed. Injury scoring in each zone followed a new clinically relevant Composite Injury Scale addressing the practical needs of those engaged in the treatment of ocular injury or development of protective eyewear. Injury scores were ascribed on the basis of a stepwise algorithm to integrate the structural damage in each of the Zones 1-3 as defined by Pieramici et al (AJO 1997), where Zone 1 is the external ocular surface, Zone 2 the anterior chamber, and Zone 3 the internal posterior segment. Results: Strong evidence for primary blast injury was obtained. Common findings included angle recession, internal scleral delamination, cyclodialysis, peripheral chorioretinal detachments, and radial peripapillary retinal detachments. No full-thickness openings of the eyewall were observed in any of the eyes tested. Scleral damage demonstrated the strongest associative tendency for increasing likelihood of injury with increased overpressure. Table 1 shows the association between primary blast peak overpressure levels and the tendency for damage to structures in anatomic Zones 1-3. Note that a level 2 injury as referred to in the table is one that would require surgery to repair and would result in chronic pathology. Conclusions: These data provide convincing evidence that primary blast can produce clinically significant ocular damage in the absence of particle impact. We also present a new Cumulative Injury Score indicating the clinical relevance of observed injuries. Commercial Relationships: William E. Sponsel, None; Matthew A. Reilly, None; Brian J. Lund, None; Walter Gray, None; ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Richard Watson, None; Sylvia L. Groth, None; Randolph D. Glickman, None; Kimberly Thoe, None Support: Department of Defense Vision Research 342 Program, Award Number W81XWH-12-2-0055 Program Number: 4446 Poster Board Number: D0106 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Mapping the entire nerve architecture and sensory neuropeptide distribution of rabbit iris Jiucheng He, Haydee E P. Bazan. Ophthalmology & Neuroscience Ctr, LSU Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA. Purpose: To disclose the entire architecture and sensory neuropeptide content of rabbit iridal innervation. Methods: Ten New Zealand albino rabbits were euthanatized and the whole irises were excised and fixed. The tissues were stained with antibodies against a neuronal-class β-tubulin III, calcitonin generelated peptide (CGRP), substance P (SP), and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) and whole-mount images were acquired to build a whole view of the iridal nerve architecture. To obtain the relative contents of the neuropeptides in the iris, after neuropeptide staining, the specimens were double stained with β-tubulin III. Relative nerve fiber densities for each fiber population were assessed quantitatively on the basis of whole mount view of the entire nerve architecture by computer-assisted analysis. Results: The iris nerves are extensions of the ciliary nerves. The thick nerves run in the iris stroma close to the anterior epithelia, forming 4-5 stromal nerve rings from the iris periphery to the pupillary margin. In the anterior surface, fine divisions derivate from the stromal nerves constitute a nerve network-like structure to innervate the epithelial cells, with the pupillary margin having the densest innervation. In the posterior side, the nerve bundles run along with the pupil dilator muscles in a radial pattern around the pupil. The morphology of iris nerves in both sides changes with the pupil sizes. Double staining showed that in the anterior epithelia, CGRP-positive nerve fibers constitute about 60%, while SP-positive nerves constitute about 30% of the total nerve contents. In the posterior side, CGRPpositive nerve fibers are about 75% of total nerve contents, while SP take up only 20%. In addition, there is a very small amount of VIPpositive nerve fibers (less than 1%). Conclusions: This is the first study to show a three dimensional map of the entire iris nerve architecture. Considering the anatomical location, the high expression of CGRP and SP implies that these neuropeptides may play important role in the pathogenesis of anterior uveitis, glaucoma, cataracts and chronic ocular pain. The images show the different patterns of nerve architectures in the anterior and posterior surface of iris. The images show the expression of CGRP-positive nerves in the pupillary margin. Commercial Relationships: Jiucheng He, None; Haydee E P. Bazan, None Support: NIH/NIGMS1P30GM103340-01A1(Bazan, N.G.); NIH/ NEI R01 EY019465-04 Program Number: 4447 Poster Board Number: D0107 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Ultra-structural study of vitreo-macular attachments related to macular ridges in Shaken Baby Syndrome Ann E. Barker-Griffith1, 2, Mark P. Breazzano3, Hengsheng Fang3, Susan S. Lee5, Michael R. Robinson5, Jerrold L. Abraham4. 1Ophthal & Pathol, SUNY Upstate Med Univ-Syracuse, Syracuse, NY; 2 Ophthalmology & Pathology, SUNY Eye Institute, Syracuse, NY; 3 Ophthalmology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY; 4Pathology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY; 5 Allergan Sales, Inc., Irvine, CA. Purpose: If macular ridges seen in Shaken Baby Syndrome relate to the vitreo-macular attachment anatomy at the area centralis, then strong vitreous fibers should be visible in young human and monkey eyes by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Methods: Monkey and more than 15 human donor globes, formalinfixed, from infants and young adults, were dehydrated by ethanol, critical-point dried by CO2, and imaged by SEM. Selected tissues were processed for histology. Results: Monkey and young human (<39 years) eyes demonstrate strong, thick, vitreous fibril attachments at the area centralis that radiate in a circumferentially oriented pattern. This feature is absent in older humans (>60 years). All eyes reveal clearly visible retinal ganglion cells at the macula and area centralis, with associative fibers that span the pre-retinal surface. Monkey histology demonstrates vitreous fibers attaching to internal limiting membrane (ILM) at the area centralis. Conclusions: Vitreal-retinal ring attachments have previously been described at the ILM in the retina1 and shown by us to be present at the macula in young human eyes2. We again demonstrate the characteristically strong attachments at the area centralis that also shows a partial canopy of vitreous fibers over this ring complex in additional young human eyes, as well as monkey eyes. Our anatomical observation may correlate with macular ridges found clinically and histopathologically in Shaken Baby Syndrome, specifically where vitreous fibers insert at the area centralis. 1. Hogan, Michael J: The vitreous, its structure, and relation to the ciliary body and retina, Investigative Ophthalmology, 2(5): 418-445, 1963. 2. Robinson, Michael R; Streeten, BW. Vitreoretinal ring attachments at the macula in normal young eyes: a scanning electron microscopic study. Invest. Ophthalmol. Vis. Sci. 28 (Suppl): 119, 1987. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Commercial Relationships: Ann E. Barker-Griffith, Allergan Sales, Inc. (F); Mark P. Breazzano, None; Hengsheng Fang, None; Susan S. Lee, Allergan Sales, Inc. (E); Michael R. Robinson, Allergan Sales, Inc. (E); Jerrold L. Abraham, None Support: Allergan Sales, Inc., Research to Prevent Blindness, Lions 20-Y1 Program Number: 4448 Poster Board Number: D0108 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Modeling the Developmental Growth of the Eye in Subjects Born at Term and Subjects with Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) Robert J. Munro1, James D. Akula1, 3, Toco Y. Chui4, Ronald M. Hansen1, 3, Tara L. Favazza1, Anne Moskowitz1, 3, Sanjay P. Prabhu2, Anne Fulton1, 3. 1Ophthalmology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA; 2Radiology, Boston Children’s Hospital, Boston, MA; 3 Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA; 4Indiana University, New York, NY. Purpose: Influenced by development and visual experience, oblate infant eyes become relatively prolate. It is unknown specifically where and when the eye grows to transform from its neonatal form to its adult form. We modeled the development of the eye to evaluate growth as a function of age, and challenged our model against the abnormal ROP eye. Methods: We reviewed extant MRIs from term-born and pretermborn ROP patients, aged 0-20 y, for images suitable for generation of high-resolution, transverse, pupil-optic-nerve sections. Subjects were categorized as ‘Term’ if they were ≥37 wk postmenstrual age (PMA) at birth (n=77) or ‘ROP’ if they were preterm and had ROP (n=29). Using custom software (Chui et al., Ophthalmology 2012; Akula et al., ARVO 2013, 3058), we segmented the inner surface of the globe. For every subject, we measured the length of rays from the centroid to the surface of the eye at 5° intervals. We described the length of each ray (Lray) as Lray(x) = b × xn / (xn + kn), where x is PMA at test, b is asymptotic length of the ray, k is the age at which the ray reaches length b/2, and n is related to the slope. We determined the rate of ray elongation, Eray(x) from Lray dy/dx. The scleral growth that accounts for Eray is 2π×Eray. We note that scleral growth at point θ, G(x,θ), and at point θ±180°, contribute nothing to elongation in Eray; conversely, half of the scleral growth at θ±90° contributes and growth at intermediate angles contributes intermediate amounts. We solved for growth G(x,θ) at every age and position. Results: G was highest at young ages and rapidly declined thereafter. Relative to Term eyes, growth in ROP eyes was low at young ages but high at older ages. In Term eyes, G was highest at the equator early and smoothly shifted to the axial poles with age; in ROP eyes, G was highest near the axial poles early and abruptly shifted to the periphery. Conclusions: Eyes become prolate because, at young ages when scleral growth is fast, it is predominantly peripheral, and later, when scleral growth is slow, it is predominantly at the axial poles. The loci of maximum growth is offset by ~90° at term in ROP eyes. Our model predicts that the small ROP eye becomes normal (or even supranormal) in size in adulthood because it is characterized by a delay in growth followed by prolonged expansion. Commercial Relationships: Robert J. Munro, None; James D. Akula, None; Toco Y. Chui, None; Ronald M. Hansen, None; Tara L. Favazza, None; Anne Moskowitz, None; Sanjay P. Prabhu, None; Anne Fulton, None Support: Children’s Hospital Ophthalmology Foundation Program Number: 4449 Poster Board Number: D0109 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Prevalence of HPV in conjunctiva of healthy subjects in Mexican population Hector J. Perez-Cano1, Ezequiel G. Díaz-Benítez2, Miriam G. RojasTejeda2. 1Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Hospital Foundation “Nuestra Señora de la Luz”, Mexico City, Mexico; 2Orbita, Párpados y Vías Lagrimales, Hospital Foundation “Nuestra Señora de la Luz”, Mexico City, Mexico. Purpose: Human papillomavirus (HPV) and their genotypes are widely distributed in the world. It has no seasonal incidence, it is one of the sexually transmitted infections more frequent and 16,18,31,33,35,39, 45, 51,52,56,58,59 and 66 genotypes, have been implicated in the development of cervical cancer. HPV has been linked in ocular diseases such as the development of pterygium and ocular surface squamous neoplasia. In this study we determine the presence of HPV in conjunctiva of healthy subjects. Methods: We studied a group of 50 healthy subjects of both sexes over 18 years of age and without ocular pathology. 50 Samples of scraping conjunctival were studied. We perform DNA extraction. The presence of HPV by the technique of the polymerase chain reaction was determined using universal oligonucleotides MY09/MY11. The positive samples were genotyped by terminators fluorescent nucleotide sequencing. Results: We obtained. 50 samples (27 men and 23 women) aged between 20 and 51 years. The samples analyzed by PCR for the detection of HPV, 2 were positive; it corresponds to 2% of the population. The results grouped by gender corresponding to 3% of the male population and 4% of the female population Conclusions: The prevalence of HPV found is similar to those reported in other countries. This study highlights the importance of focused preventive measurements to diseases caused by this virus, without forgetting the eye diseases. Commercial Relationships: Hector J. Perez-Cano, None; Ezequiel G. Díaz-Benítez, None; Miriam G. Rojas-Tejeda, None Program Number: 4450 Poster Board Number: D0110 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Orbital Complications of Trans-Foramen Ovale Surgical Manipulation Christopher D. Weaver, Steven A. Newman. Ophthalmology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA. Purpose: Approach through the foramen ovale for pathology affecting the Gasserian rhizototomy ganglion has been standard practice for neurosurgery for more than 75 years. Procedures include glycerol rhizotomy and electro cautery disruption of the trigeminal nerve. Complications have been uncommon. It is, however, possible to enter the orbit through the inferior orbital fissure. Methods: Two cases of patients seen following attempt at glycerol injection of the Gasserian ganglion developed intraorbital complications. Results: In one case an intraorbital hematoma led to transient diplopia with complete resolution without additional complications. In another case, the needle lacerated the ophthalmic artery, resulting in a pseudo-aneurysm which required neuro-interventional coiling. The motility improved, but the patient was left with a complete optic neuropathy. Conclusions: Root cause analysis of these cases indicates that placement of the needle too far laterally in the cheek permits access to the inferior orbital fissure, which is otherwise protected by the lateral wall of the maxilla. Attention to anatomic detail with the possible use of neuro navigation should make these complications less frequent in the future. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Commercial Relationships: Christopher D. Weaver, None; Steven A. Newman, None Program Number: 4451 Poster Board Number: D0111 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Genetic influence of optic disc structure: The Minnesota Twins Reared Apart Study (MISTRA) Elena Bitrian1, Karen Armbrust1, Martha M. Wright1, Alana Grajewski1, 2, Joseph Caprioli3, Erik J. van Kuijk1, Nancy Segal4, Thomas Bouchard1. 1University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN; 2 Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miami, FL; 3Jules Stein Eye Institute, Los Angeles, CA; 4California State University Fullerton, Fullerton, CA. Purpose: To assess the influence of genetic and environmental factors on optic structure, comparing correlations between monozygotic (MZA) and dizygotic (DZA) twins separated at birth. Methods: This is a retrospective review of twin pairs from the Minnesota Study of Twins Reared Apart (MISTRA). Medical records and optic disc stereo photographs from twins that had been separated at birth were reviewed. Only patients without glaucoma or optic nerve diseases were included. Vertical disc diameter (VD), vertical cup (VC), vertical cup to disc ratio (VCDR), superior rim (SR), inferior rim (IR), horizontal diameter (HD), horizontal cup (HC), nasal rim (NR), temporal rim (TR) and horizontal cup to disc ratio (HCDR) were measured with computer software by the same masked experienced ophthalmologist and values were correlated in monozygotic (MZ) and dizygotic (DZ) twins. Results: A total of 280 eyes from 70 twin pairs (44 MZA and 26 DZA pairs) were included. Mean MZA age was 38.45 ± 12.93 and mean DZA age was 42.38 ± 12.78 years old (p=0.014). Visual acuity was 1.08 ± 0.24 in MZA and 1.13 ± 0.21 in DZA twin pairs (p=0.147) and cup to disc ratio, as documented in the clinical chart, was 0.26 ± 0.16 mm in MZA and 0.23 ± 0.18 in DZA pairs (p=0.129). There were no statistically significant differences between digital optic nerve measurements in the MZA and DZA twins. The measures for MZA and DZA twin pairs, respectively, were 1.82 ± 0.21 mm and 1.80 ± 0.17 mm (p=0.364), VC 0.49 ± 0.31 and 0.45 ± 0.32 (p=0.363), VCDR 0.26 ± 0.18 and 0.25 ± 0.16 (p=0.542), SR 0.64 ±0.12 and 0.64 ± 0.14 (p=0.753), IR 0.71 ± 0.12 and 0.72 ± 0.13 (p=0.472), HD 1.60 ± 0.2 and 1.59 ±0.21 (p=0.730), HC 0.42 ± 0.29 and 0.42 ± 0.31 (p=0.813), NR 0.58 ± 0.11 and 0.57 ±0.08 (p=0.241), TR 0.52 ± 0.13 and 0.55 ± 0.17 (p=0.069) and HCDR 0.25 ±0.17 and 0.25 ±0.17 (p=0.845). MZA twin pairs had statistically significant correlations for all measured disc parameters: VD 0.844, VC 0.790, VCDR 0.750, SR 0.639, IR 0.599, HD 0.746, HC 0.824, NR 0.511, TR 0.647 and HCDR 0.733. In contrast, DZS twins had statistically significant correlations for the following measures VD, HD and TR (correlation coefficients: VD 0.673, VC 0.222, VCDR 0.227, SR 0.164, IR 0.366, HD 0.570, HC 0.315, NR 0.153, TR 0.683 and HCDR 0.337). Conclusions: There is a high correlation between optic disc structural parameters in twins reared apart that it is stronger in MZA than DZA twin pairs. Commercial Relationships: Elena Bitrian, None; Karen Armbrust, None; Martha M. Wright, None; Alana Grajewski, Alcon Laboratories Inc (F); Joseph Caprioli, Alcon Laboratories Inc (F), Allergan (C), Allergan (F), New World Medical Inc (F), NIHNEI (F), RPB (F); Erik J. van Kuijk, None; Nancy Segal, None; Thomas Bouchard, None Support: Research to Prevent Blindness Program Number: 4452 Poster Board Number: D0112 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Localization of scleral stem/progenitor cells in murine sclera Pei-Chang Wu1, Chia-Ling Tsai2. 1Ophthalmology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital - Kaohsiung, Kaohsiung, Taiwan; 2Dentistry, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Purpose: In 2011 we reported the discovery of a group of multipotent mesenchymal stem cells at the sclera, which we named the scleral stem/progenitor cells (SSPCs). The purpose of this study was further to explore the localization of SSPCs in the murine sclera. Methods: We performed BrdU pulse–chase experiments in C57BL6/J mice. The mice were administered daily intraperitoneal injections of a nucleotide dye, bromodeoxyuridine (Brdu), over 7 consecutive days. The BrdU labeled cells were detected by the immunochemical study in the sclera. As the ABCG and Sca-1 are good markers for stem cells. We also performed the immunofluorescence study to localize the SSPCs. Results: There were significant more BrdU-positive cells in the anterior sclera in comparison to the posterior sclera. The ABCG and Sca-1 positive cells were also present in the anterior sclera mostly. Conclusions: The findings are consistent with the presence of a small population of scleral stem/progenitor cells localized along the murine ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology sclera. It may help further studies of scleral diseases such as scleritis and myopia. Commercial Relationships: Pei-Chang Wu, None; Chia-Ling Tsai, None Support: CMRPG8A0891 Program Number: 4453 Poster Board Number: D0113 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Computational Modeling of Internal Eye Injury due to Primary Blast Richard Watson1, 5, Walter Gray4, Randolph D. Glickman6, 1, Brian J. Lund3, William E. Sponsel1, 2, Matthew A. Reilly1. 1Biomedical Engineering, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX; 2Visual Science, Rosenberg School of Optometry; UIW, San Antonio, TX; 3U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research, JBSA Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, TX; 4Geological Sciences, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX; 5Biodynamic Research Corporation, San Antonio, TX; 6Ophthalmology, UTHSCSA, San Antonio, TX. Purpose: Ocular trauma has increased from 0.6% to 6% of battlefield injuries over the last 140 years. Recent physical experiments have demonstrated that primary blast can produce significant ocular injury at low levels of overpressure. In most cases, the mechanisms of internal injury are obscured due to the difficulty of imaging inside the eye during the blast event. Alternatively, computational modeling can provide invaluable insight as to the internal dynamics and forces occurring inside the eye under primary blast conditions. Methods: Numerical simulations of primary blast to porcine eyes were used to support a series of in vitro shock tube experiments. Subglobe rupture levels of blast (overpressures from 50 - 200 kPa) were used in experiments and modeling. Three dimensional Lagrangian Finite Element Analysis (FEA) models were created using material properties from the relevant literature. Internal structures of the eye were modeled in detail to allow visualization of internal dynamics under blast conditions. Experimental and hypothetical blast waveforms with purely positive and purely negative pressure components were applied to give insights as to the relative contributions of each to the observed trauma. Results: FEA models predicted increasing levels of force, distortion, and strain with increasing blast energy. This is consistent with the experimental finding that likelihood and severity of injury increases with blast energy. Although not visible in the experiments, computational results suggest compression of the peripapillary retina is a potential injury mechanism even at low blast energies (Fig 1). Conclusions: FEA models confirmed the potential for primary blast ocular injury. The models suggest that different injuries are associated with the different phases of the blast profile. Specifically, posterior segment damage is associated with the positive phase and anterior segment damage (angle recession) is associated with the negative phase (Fig. 2). Computational results correlated with the physical experiments providing insight into injury mechanisms not observable in the experiments. Thus, FEA modeling is an essential supplement to physical experiments. Figure 1. Change in peripapillary retinal thickness as a function of peak overpressure Figure 2. Undeformed porcine eye geometry (left). Deformed geometry and stress distribution in sclera when subjected to negative phase of a hypothetical blast wave (right). Commercial Relationships: Richard Watson, None; Walter Gray, None; Randolph D. Glickman, None; Brian J. Lund, None; William E. Sponsel, None; Matthew A. Reilly, None Support: USAMRMC VRP Grant W81XWH-12-2-0055 Program Number: 4454 Poster Board Number: D0114 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Classification and clinical characteristics of epiphora with punctal stenosis Nam Yeong Kim, Mun Chong Hur, Yoon Hyung Kwon, Won Yeol Ryu, Hee-Bae Ahn. Dong-A University Hospital, Busan, Republic of Korea. Purpose: To evaluate the classification of punctal stenosis according to the shape of external punctum and related symptom and clinical characteristics adding to investigated histopathologic finding of stenotic punctum. Methods: Patients who has tearing and diagnosed as punctal stenosis between May 2013 and January 2014 were evaluated. Punctal stenosis was diagnosed with slit lamp exam and classified according to lower external punctum shape, membranous obstruction type, operculum type, slit type, fibrotic circular type. Control group without epiphora and punctal stenosis also evaluated. Clinical characteristics like tear meniscus height, 2% fluorescine dye disappearance test(2% FDDT) and lacrimal pathway irrigation were also done and statistical correlation with dermographic data also analyzed. As treatment, Punctal snip operation and silicone tube intubation was done and histopathologic finding of punctum was evaluated. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Results: The mean age of punctum stenosis group(43 patients, 79 eyes) was 65.69 ± 7.84 years. and control group(30 Patients, 60 eyes) was 60.3 ± 6.31 years. Punctal stenosis was classified to four types and it was divided to fibrotic circular type 26 eyes(34.17%), operculum type 25 eyes(32.65%), membranous obstruction type 17 eyes(20.25%), slit type 11eyes(13.92%) and this distribution was not statistically significant(p=0.054). And there was no statistically significant correlation of clinical exam and types of punctal stenosis, but tear meniscus was higher and 2% fluorescine dye was disappeared slower at the type of membranous obstruction than other types. The histopathologic finding of punctum showed loss of connective tissue at the margin of conjunctiva, punctum and horizontal canaliculus. and muscle of riolan was prominantly found within 0.1mm from canalicular endothelium. Conclusions: The fibrotic circular stenosis was represented as the most common type of punctal stenosis in four different shapes classification. Although these classification is not significant related to tearing symptom, but, membranous obstruction group showed elevated tear meniscus height and the histopathologic findings were compatible to the shape. Commercial Relationships: Nam Yeong Kim, None; Mun Chong Hur, None; Yoon Hyung Kwon, None; Won Yeol Ryu, None; HeeBae Ahn, None Program Number: 4455 Poster Board Number: D0115 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM The Functional and Histopathological Change in the Levator Palpebrae Superioris and Müller’s Muscle after Subconjunctival Injection of Triamcinolone Acetonide in Rabbits MINWOOK CHANG1, Jae Rock Do1, Youngseok Lee2, Sehyun Baek3. 1 Ophthalmology, Dongguk university, Goyang, Republic of Korea; 2 Pathology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea; 3Ophthalmology, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea. Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional and histopathological changes in the levator palpebrae superioris and Müller’s muscles after subconjunctival injection of triamcinolone acetonide (TA) in rabbits. Methods: Twenty-four white New Zealand rabbits were divided into two groups. In group A, a subconjunctival injection of 0.5 cc TA (40 mg/cc) was administered to the right eye, while a normal saline injection of the same volume was administered to the left eye. In group B, the same procedures were done with a 1.0 cc injection of TA or normal saline into each eyelid. Follow-up was done to evaluate the histopathological changes in the levator and Müller’s muscles, changes in the mean transectional area of Müller’s muscle, and changes in upper lid height (MRD1) at one, two, four and six weeks after injection. Western blot analyses were used to determine the levels of myosin light chain phosphorylation (MLC-p) and alpha smooth muscle actin (a-SMA), which are related to the contractility of Müller’s muscle. Results: No specific changes in MRD1 were noted in either group A or B. No significant histopathological changes were found in the levator muscles. However, significant atrophy and thinning of Müller’s muscle were found, and MLC-p and a-SMA levels were decreased. This was consistent with the histological changes of Müller’s muscle observed in rabbits that received a TA injection. These changes were reversible and influenced by the volume of the injection. Conclusions: Subconjunctival injection of TA into the upper eyelids appears to be temporally influential on both the functional and histopathological changes of Müller’s muscle. This may be explained by the effect of improvement in lid retraction regardless of the minimal specific change observed in the levator muscle. Commercial Relationships: MINWOOK CHANG, None; Jae Rock Do, None; Youngseok Lee, None; Sehyun Baek, None Program Number: 4456 Poster Board Number: D0116 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Effect of mannitol on orbital volume Adam Weber1, Bryan R. Costin1, Tal J. Rubinstein1, Khaled Asi2, Julian D. Perry1. 1Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH; 2Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH. Purpose: This IRB-aproved retrospective chart review is designed to ascertain if the administration of intravenous mannitol affects orbital volume as determined by computed tomography (CT). Methods: A list of patient’s who were administered intravenous mannitol with CT scans of the head prior to and after mannitol was obtained. Gender, age, and time between CT scans and mannitol administration were recorded. Orbital volume was calculated by calculating the area of the orbit for the five most superior CT slices that clearly contain the globe, and multiplying the average of consecutive slice areas by the thickness of each slice. This measurement method has been validated in prior literature. Pre and post-mannitol volumes were compared for each eye in each patient, and the significance of the change was determined by t-test. Results: Preliminary results were obtained from 9 patients (18 eyes). Five patients were male, and average age at time of mannitol administration was 57.94 year old. Average time between initial CT and mannitol administration was 15.47 hours, and average time from mannitol to follow-up CT was 26.17 hours. Area calculations showed an average gain in orbital volume of 19.08mm3 (+1.4%, p=0.36). Conclusions: This limited data series shows no statistically significant effect of mannitol on orbital volume. Scientific literature shows that mannitol decreases intracranial soft tissue volume. These preliminary results appear to show that orbital volume is affected differently by mannitol than intracranial tissues. Further study is required to determine if mannitol affects orbital volume. Commercial Relationships: Adam Weber, None; Bryan R. Costin, None; Tal J. Rubinstein, None; Khaled Asi, None; Julian D. Perry, None Program Number: 4457 Poster Board Number: D0117 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Impact of physiological oxygen level on the growth and the transcriptome of melanocytes and fibroblasts from the choroid Solange Landreville1, 2, Laurence Trudel-Vandal2, Constance BarryMarcheterre2, Renée Paradis2, Stephanie Proulx1, 2. 1Ophthalmology, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada; 2CUO-Recherche et Centre LOEX, Centre de recherche du CHU de Québec, Québec, QC, Canada. Purpose: Cell culture is traditionally performed in CO2 incubators maintained at atmospheric oxygen level (21%), while oxygen is transported by the blood and delivered to the cells at levels lower than 14%. Some oxygen derivatives such as the reactive oxygen species (ROS) can induce replicative senescence of cells when produced in excess, presumably because of irreversible damages to nucleic acids, lipids and proteins. The choroid is an interesting model for understanding the molecular effects of oxygen because the cells are exposed to oxygen levels varying between 4.5-11%. The goal of this study was to recreate the physiological oxygen conditions of the native choroid to study the growth and the transcriptome of melanocytes and fibroblasts. Methods: Melanocytes and fibroblasts were isolated from human choroids (n=3) by successive digestions in trypsin and collagenase. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology The cells were then exposed to physiological (<5%) or atmospheric (21%) oxygen levels. Cell viability and proliferation under both oxygen levels were measured by a colorimetric assay using the MTS tetrazolium salt and by phospho-histone H3 immunostaining, respectively. Then, gene expression profiling by microarray was conducted using RNA prepared from melanocytes and fibroblasts grown under both oxygen levels. Presence of oxidative DNA damage was studied with the CellROX Green reagent that binds oxidized DNA. Results: A significant increase in the percentage of viability was measured in melanocytes cultured at low oxygen level, compared to cells grown at 21% oxygen (increases of 65%, 31% and 50%, respectively). An opposite effect was observed with the fibroblasts (decreases of 4%, 35% and 23%, respectively). Scatter plot analysis of the microarray data indicated very few modifications in gene expression between choroidal cells exposed to both oxygen levels (R2=0.9715 and R2=0.9777, respectively). Finally, the level of oxidative stress was reduced at physiological oxygen level. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that choroidal cells could grow in physiological oxygen conditions that more closely replicate the native tissue environment. Choroidal cells exposed to different oxygen levels shared larger similarities in their transcriptome than we had predicted. Extensive work is warranted to understand the discrepancy between adaptive responses of choroidal melanocytes and fibroblasts to oxygen level. Commercial Relationships: Solange Landreville, None; Laurence Trudel-Vandal, None; Constance Barry-Marcheterre, None; Renée Paradis, None; Stephanie Proulx, None Support: Master Research Training Award from Université Laval (LTV), Research Training Awards from FRQS Vision Research Network and Fondation des maladies de l’oeil (CBM). Funding from Fondation des Hôpitaux Enfant-Jésus/Saint-Sacrement, Fondation “Ophtalmologie, Recherche & Développement”, Fondation des maladies de l’oeil, Fondation de l’Université Laval, FRQS Vision Research Network. Program Number: 4458 Poster Board Number: D0118 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Interaction between resident macrophages and perivascular mural cells of the choroid: Relevance to pathological choroidal changes in retinal disease Anil Kumar1, Lian Zhao1, Robert N. Fariss2, Wai T. Wong1. 1 UNGIRD, National Eye institute, Bethesda, MD; 2Biological Imaging Core, National Eye institute, Bethesda, MD. Purpose: Pathological choroidal vascular changes have been associated with retinal diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR), including changes in perivascular mural cells (PMCs) (i.e. pericytes and smooth muscle cells). We investigated how resident macrophages in the choroid may contribute to changes in PMC structure and function. Methods: αSMA-GFP transgenic mice containing GFP+ PMCs were used to visualize vascular interactions with resident choroidal macrophages which were labeled with antibodies to MHC-II.. The effects of polarized human THP1 macrophages on human retinal pericyte cells (HRPC) were assessed in vitro using a TUNEL assay (apoptosis), a MTT assay (cell survival), and a BrdU assay (proliferation). Results: Perivascular ramified MHC-II macrophages, resident throughout the adult mouse choroid, was observed to contact PMCs via branched and motile processes. At the level of choroidal arteries and arterioles, the termini of macrophage processes made multiple focal contacts on PMC somata and encircling processes. At the level of choriocapillaris, stellate-shaped macrophages closely fasciculated their processes with those of flattened pericytes located on the sclerad surface of the choriocapillaris. These intimate and extensive intercellular contacts indicated that macrophage-PMC interactions occur constitutively in the choroid and may regulate vascular structure and function. In in vitro experiments, conditioned media from M1- and M2-polarized THP1 macrophages, were capable of differentially affecting HRPC pericyte proliferation and survival. M2conditioned media induced in pericytes (1) increased proliferation (2) increased survival, and (3) a transition to an elongated morphology, while M1-conditioned media conversely (1) decreased proliferation, (2) increased apoptosis, and (3) promoted a transition to a rounded morphology. Conclusions: Macrophages resident in the healthy adult choroid demonstrate extensive physical interactions with PMCs, suggestive of ongoing signaling. Alterations in macrophage polarization in retinal and choroidal disease may influence pericyte density, survival and function and drive pathological vascular change in the choroid. Macrophage-PMC interactions may play a role in retinal disease pathogenesis and constitute potential targets for intervention. Commercial Relationships: Anil Kumar, None; Lian Zhao, None; Robert N. Fariss, None; Wai T. Wong, None Support: NEI intramural Program Number: 4459 Poster Board Number: D0119 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Extracellular HMGB1 promotes choroidal angiogenesis Younghee Kim1, Nagaraj Kerur1, Shengjian Li1, Ana BastosCarvalho1, Bradley D. Gelfand1, William W. Hauswirth2, Jayakrishna Ambati1. 1Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY; 2University of Florida, Gainesville, FL. Purpose: High mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) protein acts as a cellular alarm against pathologic inflammation and its extracellular release by acetylation has been reported to be required for its angiogenic cytokine function. HMGB1 has been recently suggested as a novel therapeutic target for angiogenesis; however the association between its acetylation and angiogenic function in vivo is not clear. Here we aim to examine HMGB1 effect on choroidal angiogenesis (CNV) and extracellular HMGB1 expression related to its acetylation. Methods: To investigate the effect of HMGB1 on angiogenesis, we used a mouse model of laser coagulation-induced CNV and measured CNV volume by FITC-conjugated GS-IB4 staining after treatment of a neutralizing antibody or recombinant protein of HMGB1 in WT mice. To confirm whether HMGB1 protein expression is related to CNV induction, we examined not only total HMGB1 protein but also extracellular HMGB1 protein and its acetylation in retina and retinal pigment epithelium/choroid (RPE/C) from CNV eyes comparing to WT by Western blotting. In addition, we measured CNV volume by RPE-specific knockdown of HMGB1 by subretinal injection of AAV1-VMD2-Cre to HMGB1f/f mice comparing to control AAV1VMD2-GFP group. Results: We confirmed that antibody neutralization of HMGB1 reduced CNV, whereas administration of recombinant HMGB1 protein induced CNV, implying that both endogenous and exogenous HMGB1 promote CNV. In Western blotting, total HMGB1 protein abundance did not change in both retina and RPE/C by laser injury, however extracellular HMGB1 release and its acetylation occurred in retina and RPE/C by laser-induced CNV. Conclusions: Taken together, these data suggest that extracellular HMGB1 by its acetylation is related to CNV development, and control of HMGB1 expression and localization can be a novel therapeutic target for in vivo angiogenesis. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Commercial Relationships: Younghee Kim, None; Nagaraj Kerur, None; Shengjian Li, None; Ana Bastos-Carvalho, None; Bradley D. Gelfand, None; William W. Hauswirth, None; Jayakrishna Ambati, University of Kentucky (P) Support: NEI/NIH, Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, Burroughs Wellcome Fund, Ellison Medical Foundation, Dr. E. Vernon and Eloise C. Smith Endowed Chair, Foundation Fighting Blindness, Carl Reeves Foundation, Harrington Discovery Institute; Research to Prevent Blindness Program Number: 4460 Poster Board Number: D0120 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Caveolae transport of albumin by choriocapillaris from serum to Bruch’s membrane and RPE Masataka Nakanishi, Imran A. Bhutto, Rhonda Grebe, Malia M. Edwards, Scott D. McLeod, Gerard A. Lutty. Opthalmology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD. Purpose: The choriocapillaris (CC) is the fenestrated capillary system that adjacent to the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), separated from RPE by Bruch’s membrane (BM). Recent studies show that dysfunction and eventual death of CC is related to development of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in aged-macular degeneration (AMD). If CC transport is altered and whether it plays a role in the development of AMD is not known. The aim of this study was to examine the role of CC caveolae in transport of serum macromolecules from the CC lumen to RPE. Methods: Alexa647-conjugated to bovine serum albumin (A647BSA) and PBS were administrated in normal mice and caveolaedeficient mice (cav1-/-) intravenously. Mice were perfused with PBS and sacrificed at 0.5, 1 and 4 hours post injection. Eyecups were cryopreserved. 8 um thick sections were analyzed with a Zeiss 710 confocal microscope and autofluorescence was assessed in the sections of PBS injected eyes. Five nanometer BSA-conjugated gold nanoparticles (BSA-GNP) were administrated intra-arterially via the carotid artery and mice were then perfused with PBS and sacrificed at 1 hour post injection. Eyecups were fixed with 2.5 % paraformaldehyde/2 % glutaraldehyde, post fixed with 0.5 % OsO4, dehydrated and embedded in LX112 resin. 70 nm ultrathin sections were stained with uranyl acetate and lead citrate and visualized on a Hitachi H7600 TEM. Results: In eyes of normal mice at 0.5 hour after intravenous injection, A647-BSA was localized to the RPE and appeared to have diffused into the region of photoreceptor outer segments. On the other hand, most of A647-BSA was found in CC in eyes of caveolaedeficient mice, suggesting that albumin was only bound to its receptor but not taken up nor transported by caveolae. The majority of BSA-GNP found in normal mice was observed on the luminal not abluminal side of the CC endothelium, however, some was located in caveolae, some perivascular, and some in RPE. Conversely, BSA-GNP was not observed outside the lumens of CC in caveolaedeficient mice. Conclusions: BSA transport by CC was regulated by caveolae via albumin receptor. The other transport systems of CC will be assessed using different tracers and materials to determine the normal in-vivo transport potential of CC in mice. Simultaneously, changes in CC caveolae volume are being determined by TEM in human aged and AMD subjects. Commercial Relationships: Masataka Nakanishi, None; Imran A. Bhutto, None; Rhonda Grebe, None; Malia M. Edwards, None; Scott D. McLeod, None; Gerard A. Lutty, None Support: NIH grants EY001765 and EY016151 and RPB Program Number: 4461 Poster Board Number: D0121 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM N-cadherin-mediated cell adhesion regulates epithelium polarity and morphogenesis in the developing ciliary body of the mouse eye Yi Zhou1, 2, Christopher P. Tanzie1, 2, Ting Xie1, 2. 1Stowers Institute for Medical Research, Kansas City, MO; 2Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS. Purpose: Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide and is often associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). The ciliary body (CB), a bilayered epithelial structure with underlying stroma, is involved in regulating IOP and hence often serves as the pharmacologic target for glaucoma. Despite the significant role it plays in ocular health and homeostasis, its development and morphogenesis remains poorly understood. Previously, we determined that Notch2 regulates CB morphogenesis at least in part by regulating cell proliferation and BMP signaling. Here we show that cell adhesion mediated by N-cadherin regulates cell polarity and morphogenesis independently of Notch2 and BMP signaling. Methods: We used Trp1-cre mediated loxp recombination to selectively knock-out N-cadherin in both CB epithelial layers. Mutants and littermate controls were harvested at multiple developmental stages for analysis. Standard procedures including immunohistochemistry, in-situ hybridization, BrdU labeling, TUNEL staining and Western blotting were performed to characterize the mutant phenotype. To further support our hypothesis, we used the human RPE cell line ARPE19 to knock-down N-cadherin by shRNA and measured the changes of polarity caused by the reduction of N-cadherin. Results: N-cadherin mutants display about 50% penetrance with regards to defective CB morphogenesis. Immunostaining results show that N-cadherin depletion affects neither Notch2 nor BMP signaling. BrdU labeling results indicate that N-cadherin is required to maintain high levels of cellular proliferation. Interestingly, localization of the apical polarity marker Par3 is compromised in N-cadherin mutants, and its proper localization correlates well with the degree of morphogenesis, suggesting that N-cadherin might regulate morphogenesis, at least in part, through regulation of cell polarity. Conclusions: Our previous study demonstrated that Notch2 regulates CB morphogenesis. These results identify the important role of N-cadherin-mediated cell adhesion in regulating CB development. N-cadherin regulates CB morphogenesis by stabilizing Par3-based apical polarity. These findings expand our understanding of CB development and provide insight into the cross-talk of important signaling pathways, which may be applied in other systems as well. Commercial Relationships: Yi Zhou, None; Christopher P. Tanzie, None; Ting Xie, None Program Number: 4462 Poster Board Number: D0122 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Mechanics of Optic Fissure Invagination Benjamen A. Filas1, Jie Huang1, Larry A. Taber2, David C. Beebe1. 1 Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO; 2Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, St. Louis, MO. Purpose: During early eye development the ventral optic cup invaginates to form the optic fissure. Defects in invagination have usually been studied because the deletion or mutation of a gene induces a mutant phenotype (e.g. severe coloboma, or failure of hyaloid artery and/or optic nerve formation). However, the ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology morphogenetic mechanisms that drive optic fissure formation (and malformation) are unknown. Methods: The optic fissure of developing chicken (HH13-21) and mouse embryos (E9.5-12.5) was non-invasively imaged using an optical coherence tomography system coupled to a Nikon FN1 microscope (Thorlabs). Optic cups were segmented using the Computerized Anatomy Reconstruction Toolkit and surface curvature was computed and mapped to the 3-D reconstructions with a custom Matlab routine. A finite-element plane-strain model (Comsol Multiphysics, v4.2) was used to simulate volumetric growth in the ventral optic cup assuming a Blatz-Ko pseudoelastic strain energy density function. Regional proliferation rates were specified from morphological measurements made using ImageJ. Results: OCT images showed that optic fissure invagination was distinct; occurring after optic cup formation was complete (Fig. 1, top). This invagination was asymmetric in transverse section and characterized by epithelial elongation (up to 50%) (Fig. 1, middle). Next, the fissure narrowed and deepened prior to closure (Fig. 1, bottom). Noting that Morcillo et al. (Development, 133: 3179-3190, 2006) found reduced cell proliferation in the ventral optic cup of Bmp7 KOs (fissure invagination blocked), and that we have found reduced cell proliferation in optic vesicle Bmp4 KOs (fissure and optic cup formation blocked, unpublished), we hypothesized regional growth as a mechanism for fissure formation. To test this, we used a finite-element model to simulate increased transverse growth on the nasal vs. temporal side of the fissure, as guided by morphology measurements. Resulting model shapes and curvatures were similar to experiments throughout the invagination process (Fig. 1, bottom). Conclusions: Morphological and computational analysis suggests differential growth to be a driver of fissure invagination. This finding is corroborated by abnormal regional cell proliferation patterns observed when fissure invagination is blocked in BMP KO embryos. Figure 1. Optic fissure invagination. Commercial Relationships: Benjamen A. Filas, None; Jie Huang, None; Larry A. Taber, None; David C. Beebe, None Support: Knights Templar Career-Starter Research Award (BF), NIH R01 EY004853 (DB) Program Number: 4463 Poster Board Number: D0123 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Postnatal Overexpression of TGFα in Eyelid Stroma Disturbs Eyelid Morphogenesis Fei Dong1, 2, Chia-Yang Liu1, Wei Li2, Zuguo Liu2, Yongxiong Chen2, Winston W. Kao1. 1university of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH; 2Xiamen University, Xiamen, China. Purpose: Growth factors play important roles in tissue morphogenesis during development and maintenance of homeostasis in adults. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling has pivotal role in eye lid morphogenesis, perturbation of genes involved in the signaling pathways results in eye open at birth in mouse. Transforming Growth Factor alpha (TGFα) is one of the important ligands of EGFR, which has been found to have important roles on the eyelid morphogenesis. This study aims to examine the manifestation of excess TGFα in eyelid morphogenesis after birth. Methods: : Bi-transgenic Kera-rtTA/tet-O-TGFα (KR/TGFα) mice were bred by crossing Kera-rtTA (keratocan promoter) and Tet-OTGFα mice. The newborn KR/TGFα pups were induced to over express TGFα by eyelid stromal cells via feeding doxycycline chow to the nursing mother from P0 (postnatal day 0) through P15. Eyes were collected at various time points and subjected to histological and immunofluorescence staining. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Results: Excess TGFα resulted in abnormalities in eyelid morphogenesis. The bi-transgenic mice displayed eyelid open around P10 and swollen eyelids. Single transgenic mice eye open around P14. Histology examination shows conjunctival epithelium thickening, increase of goblet cells, and malformation of Meibomian gland, formation of a cyst derived from lid stromal cells which leads to levator aponeurosis dysfunction, and mimicking human ptosis symptoms. Immunohistochemistry examination manifested high proliferation property (PCNA positive), low expression of differentiation markers e.g., collagenous matrix by Massontrichrome staining of the levator aponeurosis. The cells of the the cyst are keratin negative and vimentin positive suggesting they are mesenchyme origin. Conclusions: Taken together, these observations suggest that excess TGFα disrupts eyelid morphogenesis, especially the proper formation and function of the levator aponeurosis. Commercial Relationships: Fei Dong, None; Chia-Yang Liu, None; Wei Li, None; Zuguo Liu, None; Yongxiong Chen, None; Winston W. Kao, None Support: NIH/NEI EY013755, Research to Prevent Blindness, Ohio Lions eye Research Foundation Program Number: 4464 Poster Board Number: D0124 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Junctional p120-catenin Recruitment of Shroom3 Facilitates Apical Constriction During Lens Pit Morphogenesis Timothy F. Plageman1, Albert Reynolds3, Richard A. Lang2. 1College of Optometry, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH; 2Pediatric Ophthalmology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Research Foundation, Cincinnati, OH; 3Cancer Biology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN. Purpose: Apical constriction is an important epithelial cell behavior characterized by the conversion of a cylindrical to wedge-like shape that is necessary for normal embryonic morphogenesis of the eye. During lens pit invagination cells undergo apical constriction under the direction of the cytoskeletal protein Shroom3. Invertebrate epithelial cells undergoing apical constriction depend on the contraction of apical cortex spanning actomyosin filaments that generate force on the apical junctions and pull them toward the middle of the cell, effectively reducing the apical circumference. A current challenge is to determine whether these mechanisms are conserved in the vertebrate lens during invagination and to identify the molecules responsible for linking apical junctions with the Shroom3-dependent apical constriction machinery. This study tests the hypothesis that p120-catenin is required for apical constriction through the recruitment of Shroom3 to adherens junctions. Methods: Utilizing the developing mouse eye as a model system, the embryonic lens placode and lens pits of wild-type and mutant embryos were analyzed by immunofluorescent labeling of wholemount and histologically sectioned embryos. A genetic interaction screen utilizing Shroom3 and conditional adherens junction alleles was also performed to determine which junctional proteins function with Shroom3. Cultured epithelial cells expressing Shroom3 to model apical constriction and test junctional localization were also utilized. Results: Contractile actomyosin filaments spanning the apical cortex are circumferentially positioned in the invaginating lens pit. Among several junctional components, it was determined that p120-catenin strongly genetically interacts with Shroom3 becoming a candidate molecule for functionally linking the apical constriction machinery with epithelial junctions. Further analysis revealed that like Shroom3, p120-catenin is required for apical constriction of lens pit cells. Finally, we determined that p120-catenin functions by recruiting Shroom3 to adherens junctions. Conclusions: These data demonstrate the existence of contractile, apical cortex spanning actomyosin filaments that require linkage to the Shroom3-dependent apical constriction machinery via p120catenin during lens pit invagination. Commercial Relationships: Timothy F. Plageman, None; Albert Reynolds, None; Richard A. Lang, None Program Number: 4465 Poster Board Number: D0125 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Glutathione is a Critical Regulator of Ocular Morphogenesis Ying Chen1, David Orlicky2, Monica Sandoval1, David Thompson3, Vasilis Vasiliou1. 1Department of Pharmaecutical Sciences, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO; 2Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO; 3Department of Clinical Pharmacology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO. Purpose: During embryogenesis, the ocular surface tissues are constructed from surface ectoderm (SE). Modulation of signal transduction by the cellular milieu during embryogenesis remains poorly understood; however, evidence indicates that key signaling pathways are redox-sensitive. Glutathione (GSH), the most abundant non-protein thiol, functions as the major redox buffer that maintains cellular redox homeostasis. An essential role of GSH in early mouse development is demonstrated by deaths of E7.5-8.5 embryos deficient in Gclc, the gene that encodes the rate-limiting enzyme in GSH biosynthesis. The presence of GCLC mRNA in the developing mouse eye is suggestive of a possible role of GSH in the process of ocular morphogenesis. Methods: To elucidate such a role, we have developed a mutant (Gclcle/le) mouse line rendered incapable of GSH synthesis in SEderived ocular structures. This was achieved by crossing Gclc-Floxed mice with Le-Cre mice that express CRE recombinase driven by the promoter of mouse Pax6 gene, the “master control” gene for the development of eyes and some epidermal organs. Results: Heterozygous (Gclcw/le) and homozygous (Gclcle/le) mutants were born alive with an expected Mendelian frequency. These mutants appear to grow normally and display eye opening around postnatal day 14 (P14). Around weaning (P21), Gclcw/le and Gclcle/ le mice show good overall health except that Gclcle/le mice exhibit small eye phenotype. Starting around P35, Gclcle/le mice show growth retardation, develop elevated fasting serum glucose levels (diabetes). Around P63, they become moribund and die of diabetes complications. At this age, small eye becomes apparent in Gclcw/ le mice, which appear otherwise healthy. Histological examination of Gclcle/le eyes at P23 and P56 revealed all ocular structures to be present. However, pathologies were observed in multiple tissues, specifically cornea, lens, iris, ciliary body and retina. These included hypercellularity and cytoplasmic vacuolization associated with disorganized cellular proliferation/differentiation/death. Further characterization of the ocular phenotype at embryonic and early postnatal stages in the Gclcle/le mutants is currently underway. Conclusions: Collectively, our data demonstrate, for the first time, a critical role for GSH in ocular development. Our Gclcle/le mutant line represents a novel model by which the in vivo role of GSH in eye development may be explored. Commercial Relationships: Ying Chen, None; David Orlicky, None; Monica Sandoval, None; David Thompson, None; Vasilis Vasiliou, None Support: NIH grants EY011490 and EY021688 ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 4466 Poster Board Number: D0126 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Prohibitin is essential in zebrafish optic fissure closure Mariana Rius, Sunit Dutta, Brian Brooks. Ophthalmic Genetics and Visual Function Branch, National Eye Institute, Bethesda, MD. Purpose: Uveal coloboma is a potentially blinding ocular malformation that significantly contributes to childhood blindness. It is caused by the failure of optic fissure closure during eye morphogenesis. Optic fissure closure is a highly conserved and complex biological process, yet the governing molecular mechanisms and coloboma formation remain elusive. We previously used developmental profiling to identify a zinc-finger-containing gene, nlz1, as an important regulator of optic fissure closure. NLZ1 was independently shown to interact with prohibitin (PHB/phb), another gene suggested by our developmental screen. phb is thought to regulate cell cycle progression and mitochondrial biogenesis. This study evaluates phb as a candidate gene for coloboma using a zebrafish model. Methods: Whole mount in situ hybridization and RT PCR determined prohibitin expression patterns across relevant developmental stages. Antisense morpholino and RNA rescue measured the loss-of-function effects and confirmed the specificity of the reaction. The resulting phenotype was verified at the cellular level using histological sectioning. Results: Whole mount in situ hybridization confirmed phb1 and phb2 expression in the eye at 24 hours post fertilization (hpf), 26 hpf, 48 hpf, 72 hpf, and 120 hpf. RT PCR indicated maternal and zygotic expression of phb1 and phb2, and morpholino knockdown revealed a uveal coloboma phenotype. The morphant phenotype was rescued through co-injection with phb1 RNA, verifying the specificity of phb1 in the closure of the optic fissure. Histological analysis confirmed failure of optic fissure closure throughout embryonic development in the morphant embryos. Conclusions: Loss of prohibitin function results in coloboma in the zebrafish. The identification of a novel gene’s involvement in the fusion of the optic fissure provides insight into the various participants that may contribute to this complex, conserved, and poorly understood mechanism. Commercial Relationships: Mariana Rius, None; Sunit Dutta, None; Brian Brooks, None Program Number: 4467 Poster Board Number: D0127 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Association of Aqueous Humor Cytokines with the Development of Retinal Ischemia and Recurrent Macular Edema in Retinal Vein Occlusion Sung Jae Yang1, Hyoung Jo2, Kyoung-A Kim2, Sang Hoon Jung2. 1 Ophthalmology, Gangneung Asan Medical Center, Gangneung, Republic of Korea; 2Functional Food Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) Gangneung Institute, Gangneung, Republic of Korea. Purpose: To evaluate the association of aqueous humor angiogenic and inflammatory cytokine levels with the development of retinal ischemia and recurrent macular edema in retinal vein occlusion (RVO) patients. Methods: Retrospective cross-sectional study, patients with RVO (n=41) and age-matched control subjects (n=25) were included. The concentrations of angiogenic and inflammatory cytokines,including VEGF, PDGF-AA, IL-1a, IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1, TNF-α, and IP-10,in the aqueous humor were obtained before intravitreal injection of bevacizumab and measured using suspension array technology. After the retinal hemorrhage disappeared, fluorescein angiography(FA) images were obtained. Based on FA data, RVO patients were divided into a non-ischemic group and an ischemic group. We investigated the presence of recurrent macular edema based on optical coherent tomography (OCT) during the follow-up period. We compared the levels of cytokines of RVO patients and control subjects, and between the non-ischemic and ischemic groups and the presence of recurrent macular edema or not. Results: The aqueous humor levels of VEGF, PDGF-AA, IL-1a, IL-6, IL-8, MCP-1, TNF-α, and IP-10 were higher in the RVO group than in the control group. The aqueous humor levels of IL-8, PDFGFAA, TNF-α, and VEGF were significantly higher in the ischemic RVO group than in the non-ischemic RVO group. We did not observe any association between the cytokine levels and recurrent macular edema. Conclusions: Angiogenic and inflammatory cytokines were overexpressed in RVO patients. Additionally, increased aqueous humor levels of IL-8, PDFGF-AA, TNF-α, and VEGF at the onset of RVO were associated with the development of future retinal ischemia in RVO patients. Aqueous Humor Levels(pg/ml) of Angiogenic and Inflammatory Cytokines in the Control and RVO Groups. Aqueous Humor Levels (pg/ml) of Angiogenic and Inflammatory Cytokines in BRVO and CRVO (Presence or Lack of Non-Perfusion). Commercial Relationships: Sung Jae Yang, None; Hyoung Jo, None; Kyoung-A Kim, None; Sang Hoon Jung, None Clinical Trial: none ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 4468 Poster Board Number: D0128 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Involvement of classical and lectin pathway in an immune mediated model of glaucoma Sabrina Reinehr, H. Burkhard Dick, Stephanie C. Joachim. Ruhr University Eye Hospital, Experimental Eye Research Institute, Bochum, Germany. Purpose: Latest studies assume a participation of the complement system (CS) in the development of glaucoma. However, less is known about the pathways which activated the CS. In this study we wanted to investigate which complement pathways may play a role in the activation of the CS in an autoimmune model of glaucoma. Methods: Rats were immunized with optic nerve homogenate (ONA) or S100 protein. The control group (Co) received sodium chloride. After 7 and 14 days cross-sections of the retina were stained with C1q (Quidel), mannose binding lectin (MBL; Biozol), and mannoseassociated-serine-proteases 2 (MASP2; Biozol) (n=5-6/group). Complement components were counted using ImageJ Software. Statistical analysis was performed using t-test. Results: 7 days after immunization, no difference could be observed in C1q staining in both immunized groups compared to Co (ONA: p=0.09; S100: p=0.7). Regarding MBL, less cells could be seen in the ONA group compared to Co (p=0.0005), no changes could be noted in the S100 group (p=0.8). Although mean values showed no difference, we noted distinct more C1q and/or MBL positive cells in single immunized eyes compared to Co. Regarding MASP2 staining, significant more positive area could be seen in the ONA group compared to Co (Co: 4.24%±5.03; ONA: 9.45%±7.22; p=0.000001). No difference was noted in the S100 group (p=0.4). 14 days after immunization, no changes in C1q or MBL staining could be observed in the ONA animals (C1q: p=0.8; MBL: 0.5). Less C1q and MBL was present in the S100 group (C1q: p=0.002; MBL: p=0.046). At this point in time MASP+ area significantly decreased in ONA group (p=0.000001). No changes could be observed in the S100 group compared to Co (p=0.4). Conclusions: C1q and MBL, the marker for classical pathway or lectin pathway, were not significantly increased in both immunized groups at both points in time. But we could detect more MASP2 activation in ONA animals after 7 days. Nevertheless, we noted in single immunized eyes significant more C1q and/or MBL depositions compared to Co. Additionally, in previous studies, we could show a significant increase of C3 and the terminal pathway of the CS. These data suggest, that the CS might be activated via the classical and lectin pathway at an earlier point in time in this model. Commercial Relationships: Sabrina Reinehr, None; H. Burkhard Dick, None; Stephanie C. Joachim, None Support: German Research Foundation JO-886/1-1 Program Number: 4469 Poster Board Number: D0129 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Identification of Trauma-Related Biomarkers Following Blast Injuries to the Eye Randolph D. Glickman1, 6, Dustin Stidger1, Brian J. Lund2, Stephan Bach3, Andrea Kelley3, Walter Gray4, William E. Sponsel5, 6, Matthew A. Reilly6. 1Ophthalmology, Univ of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr SA, San Antonio, TX; 2Institute of Surgical Research, US Army, Ft. Sam Houston, TX; 3Chemistry, Univ TX San Antonio, San Antonio, TX; 4 Geological Sciences, Univ TX San Antonio, San Antonio, TX; 5 WESMD Professional Associates, San Antonio, TX; 6Biomedical Engineering, Univ TX San Antonio, San Antonio, TX. Purpose: Injuries to neural tissue result in the expression of specific biomarkers, due to the activation of repair processes or apoptotic signaling pathways. In the case of blast injuries to the eye, detection of these biomarkers may provide useful metrics for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy. The present investigation is designed to use matrix assisted laser desorption ionization time of flight (MALDI/ TOF) to identify protein biomarkers in the eyes of animal models exposed to calibrated blasts from a shock tube. Methods: To prepare for live animal experiments, ex vivo porcine eyes were commercially obtained and exposed to blasts produced by a 17” diameter shock tube, with peak pressure ranging from 48.3 to 151.5 kPa and positive pulse duration from 2.1 to 2.8 ms, depending on the number of aluminum disks placed between the driver chamber and the expansion chamber. Following blast or sham exposure, ocular samples were flash frozen and cut into 20-mm thick sections. The sections were transferred to indium titanium oxide-coated slides and coated with sinapinic acid as the matrix agent. Protein signatures were detected in these sections over a range of 7,000 to 50,000 m/z using a Bruker Daltonics Ultraflextreme MALDI/TOF. Results: The optic nerves of the eyes were probed with the laser set to 28% of maximum power. A representative mass spectrum obtained from a control eye (not subjected to a blast) is shown in Fig 1, while a spectrum obtained from an eye subjected to a blast of 120.9 kPA peak pressure and 2.5 ms duration is shown in Figure 2. Conclusions: The spectra from the control eye (Figure 1) and eye subjected to blast trauma (Figure 2) are similar, but not identical. There is a peak at m/z = 37,500 in the control eye that is not present in the blast-subjected eye, and there is a sharp peak at m/z = 12,200 present only in the blast eye. Because ex vivo tissue would not be expected to express new proteins, these differences are unlikely to result from blast effects, but rather may represent variations between ocular samples or perhaps the specific metabolic state or stress level of the animals when slaughtered. Nevertheless, these results indicate this experimental approach has the sensitivity to detect traumainduced biomarkers. Ongoing work is directed at the identification of the specific proteins observed in the MALDI spectra. Figure 1. MALDI spectrum from control eye. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology mediated signaling may play important roles that extend beyond the well-established vascular effects of Ang 1-7. Commercial Relationships: Tuhina Prasad, None; Amrisha Verma, None; Qiuhong Li, None Support: Supported in part by grants from American Diabetes Association, American Heart Association, Research to Prevent Blindness, NIH grants EY021752 and EY021721. Figure 2. MALDI spectrum from blast eye. Commercial Relationships: Randolph D. Glickman, None; Dustin Stidger, None; Brian J. Lund, None; Stephan Bach, None; Andrea Kelley, None; Walter Gray, None; William E. Sponsel, None; Matthew A. Reilly, None Support: DOD Vision Research Program, Award Number W81XWH-12-2-0055 Program Number: 4470 Poster Board Number: D0130 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Expression and Cellular Localization of Mas Receptor in the Adult and Developing Mouse Retina Tuhina Prasad, Amrisha Verma, Qiuhong Li. Ophthalmology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL. Purpose: Recent studies have provided evidence that a local rennin angiotensin system (RAS) exists in the retina and plays an important role in retinal neuro-vascular function. We have recently shown that increased expression of ACE2 and Ang1-7, two components of the protective axis of the RAS, in the retina via AAV mediated gene delivery, conferred protection against diabetes- induced retinopathy. We hypothesize that the protective molecular and cellular mechanisms of Ang1-7 are mediated by its receptor, Mas, and its expression level and cellular localization dictate the response to Ang 1-7 and activation of subsequent protective signaling pathways. We tested this hypothesis by examining the expression and cellular localization of the Mas receptor in adult and developing mouse retina. Methods: Eyes from adult and postnatal day 1(P1), P5, P7, P15 and P21 mice were enucleated and fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde overnight at 4°C.The cellular localization of Mas receptor protein was determined by immunofluorescence from OCT-embedded frozen sections or paraffin embedded sections using Mas receptor specific antibody, and the mRNA was detected by in situ hybridization from paraffin embedded sections using RNAscope kit from Advanced Cell Diagnostics Inc. Western blotting and real–time RT-PCR analysis were performed to determine the relative levels of Mas protein and mRNA in retina and cultured retinal cells. Results: In the adult eye, Mas receptor protein is abundantly present in the retinal ganglion cells (RGC) and the photoreceptor cells, lower level of expression is seen in endothelial cells, muller glial cells and other neurons in the Inner plexiform layer of the retina. In developing retina, both Mas receptor mRNA and protein expression can be detected in the inner retina at P1 and the expression levels increase with age to reach the adult level by P21. Conclusions: Mas receptor is expressed in both adult and developing mouse retina, more abundant in retinal neurons than endothelial and muller glial cells. These observations suggest that Mas receptor Program Number: 4471 Poster Board Number: D0131 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Pre-gliotic Müller cell responses in the isolated adult rat retina Linnea T. Taylor, Karin M. Arner, Fredrik K. Ghosh. Ophthalmology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden. Purpose: Upregulation of GFAP intermediate filaments in Müller cells is a well known consequence of retinal insult. However, the timeline of glial-related events preceeding this reaction and their relation to cell death progression have not been extensively explored. Methods: Full-thickness retinal sheets were isolated from adult rat eyes. 6x6 mm retinal explants were cultured for 1h, 3h, 6h, 12h, 24h, 48h and 5 days in vitro (DIV) using a previously established protocol with the photoreceptors positioned against the culture membrane. Adult rat eyes fixed immediately after enucleation were used as a baseline in vivo control. The grafts were analyzed morphologically using hematoxylin and eosin staining (H&E), immunohistochemistry with antibodies directed against several Müller cell proteins, and apoptosis (TUNEL labeling). Results: Already 1h after explantation, Müller cell expression of carbonic anhydrase II and glutamine synthetase (GS) was found to be strongly upregulated compared to baseline. Early events also included cellular retinaldehyde-binding protein (CRALBP) upregulation after 12h. These three Müller cell related proteins as well as basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) were progressively downregulated after 12h - 5 DIV compared to baseline whereas GFAP expression was unchanged from 1h-24h, and upregulated late, at 2-5 DIV. TUNEL labeling was evident in the ganglion cell layer (GCL) at 1h. At 6 and 12h, numerous cells were labeled in the GCL and the inner nuclear layer (INL). At 24h, scattered cells were labeled in the INL. After 48h, isolated labeled cells were found in the INL and outer nuclear layer, and at 5 DIV, a multitude of labeled cells were present in all cell layers. Conclusions: Several Müller cell proteins important for retinal homeostasis alter their expression almost immediately after retinal insult. These changes preceed GFAP upregulation which is a comparably late event. The pre-gliotic events and their relation to cell death dynamics provides important insight into early cell death mechanisms after retinal injury. Commercial Relationships: Linnea T. Taylor, None; Karin M. Arner, None; Fredrik K. Ghosh, None Program Number: 4472 Poster Board Number: D0132 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM MMP-3 EXPRESSION IN THE DAMAGED MOUSE RETINA: A ROLE IN GLIAL REACTIVITY? Manuel Salinas-Navarro1, Lies De Groef1, Eline Dekeyster1, Ingeborg Stalmans2, Inge Van Hove1, Lieve K. Moons1. 1Laboratory for Neural Circuit Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium; 2Department of Ophthalmology, KU leuven, Leuven, Belgium. Purpose: Matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) has been associated with neuro-inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. A recent transcriptome profiling study also revealed highly upregulated levels of MMP-3 mRNA in retinas after optic nerve axotomy. As the involvement of MMP-3 to optic neuropathies has been understudied, ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology we investigated its role in RGC survival and glial reactivity in mice subjected to optic nerve crush (ONC), a model to study glaucoma pathophysiology Methods: The left optic nerve was intraorbitally crushed in MMP-3 deficient (MMP-3-/-) and wild type (WT) mice and retinas were dissected at several survival intervals after crush (6, 12, 24 & 48h, 4 & 7d). Expression of MMP-3 was examined via immunohistochemistry (IHC) and western blot (WB). RGC survival was assessed at 4 and 7 days after ONC by quantifying the number of surviving RGCs after Brn3a immunostaining on whole mount retinas using distribution maps and automatical analyses. IHC for Iba-1, GFAP and GS was performed on retinal whole mounts and/or radial sections, which were all examined and photographed using confocal microscopy. The expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1) is currently being analyzed via WB and IHC Results: IHC revealed MMP-3 expression in the processes of Müller glia throughout the entire retina of the healthy mouse eye. MMP-3 protein expression dramatically increases at early time points after ONC, peaks at 4d after injury and is highly associated with glial cells, as confirmed by both WB and IHC. Strikingly, the number of surviving RGCs was found to be similar in MMP-3-/- and WT mice, both at 4 days (70 ± 9% vs 72 ± 6%; n=15) and at 7 days (22 ± 6% vs 25 ± 4%; n=10) post-surgery. IHC stainings for the glial cell markers Iba-1, GFAP and GS revealed a similar expression in both genotypes. To further investigate the underlying mechanisms we are currently analysing the spatio-temporal expression pattern of the endogenous MMP-3 inhibitor TIMP-1, in the retina of MMP-3-/- and WT mice subjected to ONC Conclusions: MMP-3 expression, found in Muller glia cells in the healthy retina, is highly upregulated in the injured retina. Given its glial expression, MMP-3 could contribute to glial reactivity, implying an involvement in retinal homeostasis. However, MMP-3 deficiency did not protect retinas from ONC-induced RGC death. Future experiments aim at unraveling the role of this proteinase in glaucoma pathogenesis Commercial Relationships: Manuel Salinas-Navarro, None; Lies De Groef, None; Eline Dekeyster, None; Ingeborg Stalmans, None; Inge Van Hove, None; Lieve K. Moons, None Support: Belgian FWO fellowship (CXCL12/CXCR4 and CCL2/CCR2) play a role in the modulation of spinal pain. To date the precise localization of these chemokines CXCL12 and CCL2 in the trigeminal sensory innervation of the cornea has not been described Methods: Tissue preparation: Adult male C57BL/6 mice were deeply anesthetized and perfused with saline followed by 4% paraformaldehyde. Tissues (eye, trigeminal ganglion and brainstem) were kept overnight in 4% paraformaldehyde. Coronal brainstem sections (40 mm) were cut on a vibratome. Eye and trigeminal ganglion were cryoprotected, frozen and cryostat (16 mm) sections were taken. Light and immunofluorescence labeling : tissues sections were incubated with CXCL12 (Torrey Pines) and CCL2 (Torrey Pines) polyclonal antibodies. CXCL12 and CCL2 immunoreactivity (IR) were detected either with 3,3ʹ-Diaminobenzidine (DAB) or fluorescent probes. Results: In corneal cryosections, CXCL12-IR and CCL2-IR are detected in epithelial cells and keratocytes. Interestingly, we also observed CXCL12 and CCL2 labelling in corneal nerve fibers. At the trigeminal ganglion level, in the ophtalmic V1 region we noted a basal/ constitutive production of CXCL12 and CCL2 in primary afferent neurons and in glial satellite cells. Microscopic analysis of brainstem sections immunostained with CXCL12 and CCL2 antibodies showed that both chemokines are detected in neurons and nerve fibers at the ventral trigeminal subnucleus interpo-laris– caudalis (Vi/Vc) transition and in the trigeminal subnucleus caudalis– cervical cord (Vc/C1) junction region. Conclusions: This anatomical study reported for the first time the distribution of CXCL12 and CCL2 along the corneal trigeminal neuronal pathways. Further investigations are now needed to evaluate whether these chemokines may play a role in the neuromodulation of trigeminal corneal pain. 436 Current Topics in Anatomy Wednesday, May 07, 2014 11:00 AM–12:45 PM S 330CD Paper Session Program #/Board # Range: 4587–4593 Organizing Section: Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 4587 Presentation Time: 11:00 AM–11:15 AM Distribution of the CXCL12 and CCL2 chemokines in the corneal trigeminal pathways : from the cornea to the brainstem Annabelle Reaux-le Goazigo1, Pierre-Serge Launay1, Christophe Baudouin1, 2, Stephane Melik-Parsadaniantz1. 1UPMC Univ Paris 06, UMR_S 968, CNRS, UMR_7210, Institut de la Vision, Paris, F-75012, France; 2Centre Hospitalier National d’Ophtalmologie des Quinze-Vingts, INSERM-DHOS CIC 503, Paris, F-75012, France. Purpose: The sensory innervation of the cornea originated from the ophtalmic division of the trigeminal ganglion whose neurons send fibers centrally to terminate in the trigeminal brainstem complex. Our recents studies showed that the chemokines CXCL12/SDF-1 and CCL2/MCP-1 and their receptors CXCR4 and CCR2 are produced by sensory neurons and glial cells in dorsal root ganglia and the spinal cord (Reaux-Le Goazigo et al., 2012 ; 2013) where both couples CXCL12 immunoreactivity in trigeminal ganglion ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Conclusions: In this study, the diagnosis of eyelid SAs was rare. However, the importance of this benign eyelid tumor stems from its association with internal malignancies in Muir-Torre syndrome. For this reason, it is essential that ophthalmologists initiate a systemic work-up of all patients with eyelid SAs. To diagnose a SA, a biopsy should be sent for histopathological assessment, as the clinical impression is unreliable. Finally, immunohistochemical staining of mismatch repair proteins MLH1 and MSH2 is a valid and accessible strategy for investigating MTS. CXCL12-IR in spinal trigeminal nucleus Commercial Relationships: Annabelle Reaux-le Goazigo, None; Pierre-Serge Launay, None; Christophe Baudouin, Alcon (C), Allergan (C), Santen (C), Thea (C); Stephane Melik-Parsadaniantz, None Support: This study was supported by agence Nationale pour la Recherche (Grant J12R135 Project CHEMOK PAIN 2) and LABEX LifeSence Grant Program Number: 4588 Presentation Time: 11:15 AM–11:30 AM Sebaceous adenomas of the eyelid and Muir-Torre syndrome Lisa Jagan, Vasco Bravo-Filho, Patrick Logan, Mohammed Qutub, Eman Al-Sharif, Miguel N. Burnier. Department of Ophthalmology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada. Purpose: Sebaceous adenomas (SAs) are rare, benign sebaceous gland tumors that typically manifest as yellow, circumscribed nodules on the eyelid, face and scalp. Histopathologically, these lesions are composed of multiple sebaceous lobules that vary in size, shape, and differentiation. SAs may be associated with internal malignancies, particularly gastric and colon cancer. This association, known as Muir-Torre syndrome (MTS) is caused by the autosomal dominant inheritance of defective genes encoding DNA mismatch repair proteins. The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of SAs and MTS, to determine the reliability of the clinical diagnosis of SAs, and to evaluate the immunohistochemical staining patterns of the DNA mismatch repair proteins MLH1 and MSH2 for a recent MTS case. Methods: The histopathology reports from all eyelid specimens collected between 1993-2013 at the Henry C. Witelson Ocular Pathology Laboratory were evaluated to determine the number of SAs with or without associated MTS. The clinical diagnosis of each eyelid lesion was compared to the confirmed histopathological diagnosis in order to determine concordance. Immunohistochemical staining for MLH1 and MSH2 was performed for each SA. Results: Of the 5884 eyelid specimens collected, nine were SAs (6 females, 3 males; 42-72 years old). The diagnosis of SA was clinically suspected in only one of the nine cases. MTS was discovered in one patient with an associated colon adenocarcinoma. The recognition of the eyelid SA on histopathology was the main reason for systemic investigation in this patient. Immunohistochemical staining for this case revealed positive MLH1 expression and negative MSH2 expression, confirming a diagnosis of MTS. Commercial Relationships: Lisa Jagan, None; Vasco Bravo-Filho, None; Patrick Logan, None; Mohammed Qutub, None; Eman AlSharif, None; Miguel N. Burnier, None Program Number: 4589 Presentation Time: 11:30 AM–11:45 AM Topography of lymphatic markers in human anterior uvea Falk Schroedl2, 1, Alexandra Kaser-Eichberger2, Andrea Trost2, Clemens Strohmaier2, Barbara Bogner2, Christian Runge2, Martin Laimer4, Simona L. Schlereth3, Ludwig M. Heindl3, Herbert A. Reitsamer2. 1Anatomy, Paracelsus University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria; 2Ophthalmology, Paracelsus University Salzburg, Sallzburg, Austria; 3Ophthalmology, University Cologne, Cologne, Germany; 4 Dermatology, Paracelsus University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria. Purpose: Reports of lymphatics in the anterior human uvea are contradictory. This might be caused due to a certain topography which has not been considered yet. Therefore we here systematically analyze iris and adjacent ciliary body with immunohistochemistry by combining various lymphatic markers. Methods: Meeting the Declaration of Helsinki, human iris and ciliary body were obtained from cornea donors and prepared for cryosectioning. Cross sections of tissue blocks at 12, 3, 6, 9 o`clock position and at all corresponding intersections (i.e., 1.30, 4.30, 7.30, 10.30) were processed for immunohistochemistry of the following lymphatic markers: LYVE1, podoplanin, PROX1, FOXC2, VEGFR3, CCL21. Additionally applying DAPI, double, triple and quadruple combination of aforementioned markers were documented using confocal microscopy. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Results: In the iris, LYVE 1 positive cells of various morphology were distributed throughout the non-pigmented part. These cells were lacking podoplanin. Numerous podoplanin positive cells were mainly located at the anterior border of the iris. These cells were not colocalized with LYVE1 or PROX1, FOXC2, CCL21, VEGFR3. While podoplanin positive cells were only rarely detected posteriorly of the iris root, many LYVE1 positive cells were also present within the cilary muscle and ciliary body villi. In the ciliary muscle, occasionally podoplanin+ vessel-like structures were detectable, but these were never colocalized with LYVE-1. Similar vessel-like structures immunoreactive for VEGFR3 never displayed PROX1 or CCL21. A certain topography of structures at the various uveapositions investigated was not obvious. Conclusions: Structures colocalizing for at least two lymphatic markers were not detectable at positions investigated, and further a certain topography was not obvious. Putative lymphatic channels of the anterior uvea therefore might display a different marker panel than generally presumed. Commercial Relationships: Falk Schroedl, None; Alexandra Kaser-Eichberger, None; Andrea Trost, None; Clemens Strohmaier, None; Barbara Bogner, None; Christian Runge, None; Martin Laimer, None; Simona L. Schlereth, None; Ludwig M. Heindl, None; Herbert A. Reitsamer, None Support: FFG830770, PMU-FFF R13-/01/042-KAS, FuchsFoundation, Lotte-Schwarz Endowment Program Number: 4590 Presentation Time: 11:45 AM–12:00 PM Absence of lymphatic vessels in the developing human sclera Barbara Neuser1, Simona L. Schlereth1, Martina C. Herwig2, Annette M. Müller3, Falk Schroedl4, Konrad R. Koch1, Claus Cursiefen1, Ludwig M. Heindl1. 1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; 2Department of Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany; 3Department of Pediatric Pathology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany; 4Departments of Ophthalmology and Anatomy, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria. Purpose: The adult human sclera contains a network of small sized blood vessels and LYVE1+ macrophages mainly in the episclera, but lacks LYVE1+/podoplanin+ lymphatic vessels. Since it is not known whether the fetal sclera is primarily alymphatic or contains lymphatic vessels during the intrauterine scleral development, we investigate for blood and lymphatic vessels in human fetal scleral tissue at different gestational ages. Methods: Meeting the declaration of Helsinki, fetal human sclera from 35 abortions / stillborns (12-38 weeks of gestation (WoG); 12-18 WoG, n=10; 19-23 WoG, n=13; and 24-38 WoG, n=11) was analyzed immunhistochemically for blood (CD31+) and lymphatic vessels (LYVE+, podoplanin+) at anterior, equatorial, and posterior location. The number of CD31+blood vessels or LYVE1+cells was correlated with gestational age. Results: The human sclera contained CD31+ blood vessels as early as WoG 13. Until 18 WoG, the scleral stroma is enriched with blood vessels in a similar amount as the episclera (p=0.4). After 19 WoG the amount of stromal CD31+ blood vessels decreased significantly compared to episclera (p<0.02 at 19-23WoG and p<0.001 at 2438WoG). In the lamina fusca blood vessels were absent at any time point investigated. And further, LYVE1+ or podoplanin+ lymphatic vessels were not detectable in the sclera at any gestational ages analyzed. However, single LYVE1+cells were identified primarily in the episclera their amount decreasing significantly with increasing gestational ages (12-18 WoG compared to 24-38WoG: p<0,01). In contrast to the conjunctiva where LYVE1+podoplanin+ lymphatics were detectable as early as week 17, the amount of LYVE1+cells in the sclera was highest in early pregnancy (12-18WoG), with a significant decrease during pregnancy (p<0.001). Conclusions: The fetal human sclera contains CD31+blood vessels as early as week 13, but is primarily alymphatic. However, single LYVE1+ cells could be identified in early pregnancy, decreasing in number with ongoing pregnancy. Compared to the conjunctiva, with high amounts of LYVE1+cells in early pregnancy and growth of lymphatic vessel as early as week 17, our findings within the sclera suggest an early and strong expression of selective antilymphangiogenic factors during development present in the sclera. Commercial Relationships: Barbara Neuser, None; Simona L. Schlereth, None; Martina C. Herwig, None; Annette M. Müller, None; Falk Schroedl, None; Konrad R. Koch, None; Claus Cursiefen, None; Ludwig M. Heindl, None Support: DFG grant # HE 6743/2-1 to L.M. H., DFG grant #CU47/6-1, Bayer Graduate School Pharmacology, Ruth and Helmut Lingen Stiftung Cologne to C. C., Cologne GEROK program to S. L. S. Program Number: 4591 Presentation Time: 12:00 PM–12:15 PM Optic Nerve Sheath Mechanics and Permeability in VIIP Syndrome Julia Raykin1, Lauren Best2, Rudy Gleason1, Lealem Mulugeta3, Jerry Myers2, Emily Nelson2, Brian C. Samuels4, C R. Ethier1. 1Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology/ Emory University, Atlanta, GA; 2NASA Glenn Research Center, Cleveland, OH; 3Universities Space Research Association, Houston, TX; 4Department of Ophthalmology, U. Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL. Purpose: To investigate the biomechanical properties of the optic nerve sheath (i.e. fluid permeation across the meninges and tissue stiffness) at various CSF pressures. Such information is relevant to understanding ophthalmic changes associated with long-duration space flight (i.e. Visual Impairment and Intracranial Pressure syndrome; VIIP), thought to be largely due to cephalad fluid shifts causing altered ocular, cardiovascular, lymphatic and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressures. The hypothesis is that increased CSF pressure drives connective tissue remodeling of the posterior eye and optic nerve sheath. Methods: The meninges of fresh porcine eyes (n=10) was reflected to expose the optic nerve, which was truncated 3-4 mm posterior to the sclera. The meninges were repositioned leaving a “hollow” cylinder of connective tissue attached to the posterior sclera. The distal end was cannulated, sealed, and attached to a pressure control system that simulated CSF pressure changes. The anterior chamber of the eye was also cannulated for independent control of intraocular pressure (IOP). While IOP remained stable, a CCD camera recorded the meningeal diameter as the CSF pressure cycled between 7-50 mmHg. In a second set of experiments, the rate of fluid permeation across the meninges was recorded by observing the drainage of an elevated fluid reservoir connected to the meninges. Results: Cyclic pressure-diameter curves showed a preconditioning effect, with repeatable behavior in cycles 4-6 (Figure). The meninges showed marked nonlinear stiffening, particularly at CSF pressures >15 mmHg. The tangent moduli extracted from these data were 318, 745, and 1273 kPa at CSF pressures of 7, 15 and 30 mmHg, respectively. Permeability experiments determined a flow rate of ~2ml/hr through the intact meninges at a driving pressure of 30mmHg, corresponding to a permeability of 7.34x10-5 ml/min/cm2/ mmHg. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Conclusions: The meninges demonstrate biomechanical properties typical of other soft tissues, with nonlinear stiffening and appreciable hysteresis on pressure cycling. This tissue is surprisingly permeable, suggesting that there could be important CSF drainage through the meninges into the periorbital fat. These experimental measurements, extended to cadaveric eyes, will be critical in informing computational models aimed at identifying the pathophysiology of VIIP syndrome. Increased or decreased Cyp1b1 inhibited retinal and NC survival. Additional studies assessed substrates and targets of Cyp1b1 in eye development. While Cyp1b1 regulation of eye development was not mediated by estradiol, Cyp1b1 overexpression partially rescued defects due to retinoic acid (RA) deficiency. However, Cyp1b1 did not regulate transcript expression of RA synthesis (raldh2) or degradation (cyp26c1) enzymes or pitx2, a known downstream target of RA in the periocular mesenchyme. In addition, alterations of Cyp1b1 did not significantly change transcript expression of genes known to be associated with colobomas such as vsx2, otx2, dvr1, gdf6, and pax6. Conclusions: We demonstrated that cyp1b1 expression spatially and temporally correlated with the ocular fissures and regulated fissure closure. Further, Cyp1b1 had a non-cell autonomous effect on NC proliferation and migration. Although this effect is partially mediated by RA, additional downstream targets remain to be elucidated. These studies give insight into how mutations in CYP1B1 disrupt ocular NC development in the pathogenesis of congenital glaucoma. Pressure-diameter curves for a single eye, tested over six 7-50 mmHg pressure cycles. Commercial Relationships: Julia Raykin, None; Lauren Best, None; Rudy Gleason, None; Lealem Mulugeta, None; Jerry Myers, None; Emily Nelson, None; Brian C. Samuels, None; C R. Ethier, None Support: NASA NNX13AP91G Program Number: 4592 Presentation Time: 12:15 PM–12:30 PM Cyp1b1 Regulates Ocular Fissure Closure and Subsequent Neural Crest Migration Brenda L. Bohnsack, Bahaar Chawla. Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI. Purpose: CYP1B1 gene mutations are a common cause of congenital glaucoma, but the mechanism by which CYP1B1 regulates eye development is unknown. In these studies, we used zebrafish to study the role of cyp1b1 in the eye. Methods: Morpholino oligonucleotides (MO) and mRNA injections were used with exogenous regulators and analogs of estradiol and retinoic acid (RA). Embryos were analyzed by time-lapse imaging, in situ hybridization, immunostaining, TUNEL assay, and histology. Results: Cyp1b1 was expressed in the retina with localization in the ocular fissures by 24 hours post fertilization (hpf). Cyp1b1 expression peaked at 36hpf and then disappeared in the dorsal and ventral retina by 60 and 72hpf, respectively. Cyp1b1 knockdown did not inhibit early (12-24hpf) NC migration into the craniofacial region. However, Cyp1b1 was required for later (24-60hpf) NC migration through the ocular fissures and iridocorneal angle formation. Cyp1b1 overexpression prevented closure of the inferior ocular fissure resulting in prominent colobomas (Fig). While Cyp1b1 overexpression did not inhibit NC migration, failure of fissure closure disrupted NC organization around the lens. Knockdown of Cyp1b1 significantly increased retinal and NC cell proliferation while overexpression did not affect the number of cells in S-phase. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Methods: 20 myopic subjects (n=40 eyes) without other identified pathologies participated in this study: 20 eyes of ≤3 diopters [D] (low myopic), 10 eyes between -3D and -6D (mildly myopic), and 10 eyes of ≥6 D (highly myopic). The mean age of subjects was 30.2 years (±7.6 years; range, 24 to 46 years). A 100-kHz SD-OCT system, capable of 6-mm ranging distance and 12-mm-wide field of view, was used to acquire 3D datasets from the subjects. The 3D OCT image of choroid was segmented into superior, inferior, nasal and temporal quadrants. The measured CT represented the normal distance between outer retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) layer and inner scleral border. Measurements were made within concentric regions centered at the fovea, extended to 5 mm away from the fovea at 1 mm intervals in the nasal and temporal directions. Statistical analysis was performed to evaluate CT at each region and observe the relationship between CT and the degree of myopia. Results: For low myopic eyes, CT is the thickest under the fovea (273.85±49.01μm) as is in the case of healthy eyes. Peripheral to the fovea, the mean CT decreases rapidly along the nasal direction, reaching a minimum of 180.65±58.25μm at 5 mm away from the fovea; this value is 234.25±42.27μm in the temporal direction. In contrast, the thickest CTs lie in the temporal region for mildly and highly myopic eyes (where CT=194.94±27.28μm and 163±34.89μm, respectively), whilst the thinnest CTs appear in the nasal region (where CT= 100.84±16.75μm and 86.64±42.6μm, respectively). The CT reduction rate is calculated as 31.28μm/diopter from low to mild myopia, whilst it is 13.49μm/diopter from mild to high myopia. Conclusions: The CT decreases gradually with the increased myopia. The current results support the theory that choroidal abnormality may play an important role in the pathogenesis of myopic degeneration. Commercial Relationships: Brenda L. Bohnsack, None; Bahaar Chawla, None Support: NH Grant K08EY022912-01, Research to Prevent Blindness Career Development Award, Edward Mallinckrodt Jr Foundation Grant Program Number: 4593 Presentation Time: 12:30 PM–12:45 PM Measuring Choroidal Thickness in Myopic eyes using 1060-nm Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography qinqin zhang1, Maureen Neitz2, Jay Neitz2, Ruikang K. Wang1. 1 Department of Bioengineering, university of washington, seattle, WA; 2Department of Ophthalmology, university of washington, seattle, WA. Purpose: To measure macular choroidal thickness (CT) using 1-micron SD-OCT system and to investigate the geographic CT differences among low, mildly and highly myopic subjects. Fig.1 Typical geographic maps of CT of (a) low, (b) mild and (c) high myopic eyes. Commercial Relationships: qinqin zhang, None; Maureen Neitz, None; Jay Neitz, None; Ruikang K. Wang, Carl Zeiss Meditec (P), Optovue Inc. (F) ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology 470 Uveal melanoma: Pathophysiology, Managment and Prognosis Wednesday, May 07, 2014 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Exhibit/Poster Hall SA Poster Session Program #/Board # Range: 5056–5099/A0001–A0044 Organizing Section: Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 5056 Poster Board Number: A0001 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Effects of various MAPK and PI3K/Akt inhibitors on the constitutive secretion of VEGF by uveal melanoma cells Dan-Ning Hu, Steven A. McCormick, Tommaso Vagaggini, Richard B. Rosen. Pathology & Ophthalmology, New York Eye & Ear Infirmary, New York, NY. Purpose: VEGF plays a critical role in angiogenesis and in the growth and metastasis of uveal melanoma (UMa). Studying the regulation of secretion of VEGF by UMa cells with MAPK and PI3K/Akt signal pathways is important for understanding the pathogenesis of and target therapy for UMa. Methods: The constitutive levels of VEGF secretion were tested in six human immortal UMa cell lines (MP17, M21, M23, SP6.5, SP8.0 and TP3.1). Cells were seeded into 24-well plates and cultured with serum-free culture medium. After 24 hr, the conditioned culture medium was collected, and the amount of VEGF was measured using a sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit (R & D Systems). In a separate signal pathway study, cells were cultured siminarly with or without various signal pathway inhibitors, including LY294002 (PI3K/Akt inhibitor), UO1026 (ERK inhibitor), SP600125 (JNK inhibitor) and SB203580 (p38 MAPK inhibitor). The conditioned media were collected 24 hr later, and the amount of VEGF was measured as described above. All tests were performed in triplicate. Results: VEGF could be detected in the conditioned medium at a relatively high concentration from all cultured UMa cells (1989 ± 71 pg/106 cells/24 hr). Treatment of cells with PI3K/Akt inhibitor and ERK inhibitor significantly decreased VEGF levels in the conditioned media to 41% and 46% of that in controls (P < 0.05). JNK1/2 inhibitor and p38 MAPK inhibitor did not cause a significant change in the VEGF production by UMa cells (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Uveal melanoma cells have a significantly constitutive secretion of VEGF. Inhibition of PI3K/Akt and ERK pathways, but not JNK1/2 and p38 MAPK pathways, decreases the constitutive secretion of VEGF by UMa. This indicates that PI3K/Akt and ERK pathways play an important role in the constitutive secretion of VEGF by UMa cells and might be considered as a target in the prevention and treatment of UMa. Commercial Relationships: Dan-Ning Hu, None; Steven A. McCormick, None; Tommaso Vagaggini, None; Richard B. Rosen, Clarity (C), OD-OS (C), Optovue (C) Support: Pathology Research Fund, New York Eye and Ear Infirmary and the Bendheim-Lowenstein Family Foundation, New York Program Number: 5057 Poster Board Number: A0002 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM The expression of FoxC1 in Uveal Melanoma Silvin Bakalian, Dana Faingold, Pablo Zoroquiain, Matthew Balazsi, Natàlia Vilà, Emilia Antecka, Miguel N. Burnier. McGill University, St. Laurent, QC, Canada. Purpose: Forkhead box transcription factor C1 (FoxC1) plays an important role in the eye differentiation. FoxC1 overexpression was linked to poor survival in hepatocellular carcinoma and breast cancer. Other reports showed decreased metastasis of breast cancer cells following FoxC1 overexpression. The aim of this study is to evaluate the expression of FoxC1 inuveal melanoma (UM). Methods: Fifty one cases of paraffin-embedded, human UM were immunostained with a polyclonal FoxC1 antibody. Immunohistochemical expression was assessed based on staining extent and intensity. Extent was evaluated as the percentage of cells showing positive staining (0=none, 1= ≤50% of the tumour cells; 2=51-75% of the tumor cells; and 3=≥76% of the tumor cells). Staining intensity was assessed as follows (0=none; 1=weak; 2=moderate; and 3=strong). The cases were grouped into low FoxC1 expression when combined extent and intensity scores were between 1 and 4, and high FoxC1 expression when total score was 5 and 6. Clinical-pathological data were obtained, including age, gender, cell type, and largest tumor dimension (LTD), which were correlated with FoxC1 expression. Results: The expression of FoxC1was positive in all cases of UM samples (51 specimens). The immunostaining was always cytoplasmic. In addition, weak intranuclear staining was seen in 16 cases. Twenty specimens showed low FoxC1 expression, while 31 specimens showed high FoxC1 expression. The mean age of UM patients was 62 years, and the mean follow up period was 52 months. The mean LTD was 11mm. There were 8 (16%) cases of spindle UM, 26 (51%) cases of mixed UM and 17 (33%) cases of epithelioid cell type UM. All intratumoral vessels as well as retinal and choroidal vessels displayed negative immunostaining for FoxC1. Survival analysis did not show statistically differences between the two groups of patients (low expression of FoxC1 versus high expression of FoxC1). However, there was a trend with a longer survival rate for the group of patients with low expression of FoxC1. Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge this is the first study on the expression of FoxC1 in primary uveal melanoma. A positive correlation of intranuclear staining with metastasis has been reported in other malignancies. Due to the fact that FoxC1 is expressed in the cytoplasm of uveal melanoma cells, it is possible that FoxC1 plays a different role in this particular malignancy. Commercial Relationships: Silvin Bakalian, None; Dana Faingold, None; Pablo Zoroquiain, None; Matthew Balazsi, None; Natàlia Vilà, None; Emilia Antecka, None; Miguel N. Burnier, None Program Number: 5058 Poster Board Number: A0003 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM FOXO1 expression in uveal melanoma and ocular tissues of normal eyes Vasco Bravo-Filho1, 2, Silvin Bakalian1, Paula Blanco1, Li-Anne Lim1, Emilia Antecka1, José João Mansure1, Miguel N. Burnier1, 2. 1Ocular Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada; 2Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil. Purpose: Forkhead transcription factor class O1 (FOXO1) is necessary for the normal development of the vascular system. Loss of FOXO1 may be associated with tumorigenesis and cancer progression. Also, FOXO1 is involved in cancer cell chemoresistance. Our purpose was to evaluate and compare the expression of FOXO1 in eyes with uveal melanoma (UM) to normal eyes. Methods: Twenty-six eyes with UM and pertinent clinical information were retrieved from the Henry C. Witelson Ocular Pathology Laboratory (McGill University, Canada). Immunohistochemical expression of FOXO1 in eyes harboring UM was compared to 25 normal eyes (>50 years old; obtained from The Eye Bank of Canada). FOXO1 staining was scored by an ocular pathologist according to intensity and extent: low (1), moderate ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology (2), or strong (3) for the former; and less than 50% (1), between 50 and 80% (2), and more than 80% (3), for the latter. Data were then converted to a numeric final score by multiplying the intensity and extent staining scores, resulting in a score ranging from 0 to 9 (0=negative;1–3=weak;4–6=moderate; 7–9=strong). The Student’s t-test was used to determine statistical significance. A KaplanMeier survival analysis using the log-rank test was used to evaluate differences in survival curves according to staining score. Results: FOXO1 was expressed in 57.3% of UM cells. Choroidal and retinal vessels in normal eyes had higher FOXO1 scores compared to tumor harboring eyes (P=0.0001). In UM eyes, tumor cells had higher FOXO1 scores compared to normal choroidal melanocytes (P=0.0001). There was no statistical difference in expression in the other eye structures between the two groups and there was no association between expression of FOXO1 and metastases or FOXO1 and cell type. Conclusions: Uveal melanoma cells showed higher expression of FOXO1 than normal melanocytes. Due to the evidence that FOXO1 decreases apoptosis via the PI3K/Akt pathway, the higher expression of FOXO1 in melanoma cells may indicate increased cell proliferation and viability of the malignant cells. The low expression of FOXO1 in normal choroidal and retinal vessels in uveal melanoma cases should be further investigated. Commercial Relationships: Vasco Bravo-Filho, None; Silvin Bakalian, None; Paula Blanco, None; Li-Anne Lim, None; Emilia Antecka, None; José João Mansure, None; Miguel N. Burnier, None Support: CAPES and Sean Murphy Ocular Pathology Pan-American Fellow Program Number: 5059 Poster Board Number: A0004 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM SIRT2 Expression is Higher in Uveal Melanoma Than Ocular Melanocytes Henry A. Wood, Pablo Zoroquiain, Patrick Logan, Shawn C Maloney, Nouf AlSaati, Miguel N. Burnier. Henry C. Witelson Ocular Pathology Laboratory, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada. Purpose: Current research has illustrated the potential of Sirtuins to contribute to neoplastic progression in different cancers. SIRT2 is a sirtuin that has been shown to be involved in cell cycle progression and changes in protein acetylation. Uveal Melanoma (UM) is the most common primary intraocular tumour in adults, with 45% of afflicted patients developing metastasis. The aim of this study was to characterize the expression of SIRT2 in UM cases and compare with expression of SIRT2 in the uveal tract of normal human eyes (NHE). Methods: Twenty-one formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded human UM cases were immunostained for SIRT2, along with 15 NHE obtained from the Eye Bank of Canada. The uveal tract was evaluated in all eyes and tumor-specific staining was evaluated in the UM cases. Immunostaining was graded based on intensity and extent of staining. Intensity was classified as 0 (negative), 1 (weak), 2 (moderate), or 3 (strong). Extent was classified as 0 (negative), 1 (<50% positive cells), 2 (50-80% positive cells), or 3 (>80% positive cells). A final immunoreactive score (IRS) was calculated as follows: intensity x extent. Mean IRS was calculated for each group and differences were evaluated using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: The mean SIRT2 IRS for each cell type in UM cases (+/standard deviation) was as follows: 4.4 +/- 2.9 for UM cells, 0.9 +/0.7 for choroidal melanocytes, and 1.0 +/- 1.7 for iris melanocytes. For NHE, IRS for choroidal melanocytes was 0.5 +/- 0.6. Iris melanocytes were not evaluated due to absence of the anterior segment in those eyes. UM cells had a significantly higher IRS than all groups of evaluated normal melanocytes in both UM and NHE cases (p<0.05). No significant difference in IRS was found when comparing normal melanocytes in UM and NHE cases. Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrate that SIRT2 expression is significantly stronger in uveal melanoma cells than normal ocular melanocytes. This finding may indicate an important role of SIRT2 as a prognostic marker in uveal melanoma progression. Commercial Relationships: Henry A. Wood, None; Pablo Zoroquiain, None; Patrick Logan, None; Shawn C Maloney, None; Nouf AlSaati, None; Miguel N. Burnier, None Program Number: 5060 Poster Board Number: A0005 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM VEGF-A expression is positively correlated with metastasis in uveal melanoma Patrick Logan, Shawn Maloney, Vasco Bravo-Filho, Natàlia Vilà, Matthew Balazsi, Miguel N. Burnier. McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada. Purpose: Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A expression in uveal melanoma (UM) has previously been described; however, there is a lack of consensus about whether or not expression correlates with metastasis. In the present study, we developed a custom algorithm for objectively quantifying VEGF-A immunostaining in UM and determined if VEGF-A expression correlates with metastasis. Methods: The inclusion criteria for patient samples were: choroidal UM diagnosis, minimum 5-year follow-up, data on the presence of metastases, and sufficient tumor size to obtain 3 non-overlapping images occupying 90% of the image at 200× magnification. Tumors were stained with a monoclonal VEGF-A antibody and all images were obtained using the identical camera and settings. A custom algorithm was created using ImageJ software to identify and quantify the number of positively stained UM cells. The hue, saturation, and brightness (HSB) were adjusted in order to isolate positive cells. HSB values were determined by trial and error; however, once set, they remained consistent for all images. The percentage of the image that was immunostained and the number of positively stained cells were determined using the algorithm. An ocular pathologist evaluated the slides to confirm that the majority of cells that stained positive and were isolated by the algorithm were UM cells. A binary logistic regression was performed with the presence of metastasis as the dependent variable and average cell count and average positive staining fraction as the independent variables. Results: Of the 29 cases that met the inclusion criteria, eight UM patients had metastases (28%). The quantification algorithm was capable of identifying the positively stained cells and rendered cell counts and area stained even in samples with strong melanin presence. Using positive immunostaining values generated by the algorithm, we determined that VEGF-A presence in the primary tumor was significantly associated with metastasis; the predictive accuracy of the model was 79.3% using positive VEGF-A staining average cell count and average positive area (P<0.05). Conclusions: The presence of VEGF-A in primary uveal melanoma can be used to retrospectively predict metastasis. The custom algorithm used in this study facilitates meta-analyses and eliminates potential bias when grading immunohistochemical staining. This information may help clinicians to select patients for anti-VEGF therapy. Commercial Relationships: Patrick Logan, None; Shawn Maloney, None; Vasco Bravo-Filho, None; Natàlia Vilà, None; Matthew Balazsi, None; Miguel N. Burnier, None ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 5061 Poster Board Number: A0006 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Increased HIF-1α Expression Correlates with Cell Proliferation and Vascular Markers CD31 and VEGF-A in Uveal Melanoma Frederic Mouriaux1, 4, Francois Sans Chagrin2, Caroline Diorio3, Solange Landreville4, François Comoz1, Edwige Petit5, Myriam Bernaudin5, Alain P. Rousseau4, Dan Bergeron4, Mohib Morcos2. 1 Ophthalmology, CHU, Caen, France; 2Pathology, Hopital St Sacrement, Québec, QC, Canada; 3URESP, Centre de recherche FRSQ du CHU de Québec, Québec, QC, Canada; 4Ophthalmology, Université Laval, Québec, QC, Canada; 5CNRS, UMR 6301 ISTCT, CERVOxy. GIP CYCERON, Caen, France. Purpose: Overexpression of hypoxia inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF1α) has been found in several cancers and is thought to correlate with aggressive disease. The purpose of our study was to investigate the influence of HIF-1α on clinical outcome in uveal melanoma (UM) along with proliferative (MIB-1) and vascular (CD31, VEGF-A) markers Methods: A retrospective analysis was carried out on UM tumors from 88 patients. HIF-1α, MIB-1, CD31 and VEGF-A expression, as well as necrosis were assessed by H&E immunohistochemistry on paraffin-embedded UM tumor sections using a Tissue Microarray (TMA). The bivariate analysis involving HIF-1α expression and clinicopathological covariates was performed using the Chi-square test. The association of clinicopathological covariates and HIF-1α expression with patient survival was evaluated using the KaplanMeier approach and Cox proportional-hazards regression analysis. Results: Among our study population, 56 patients (63.6%) had high levels of HIF-1α expression. High expression of HIF-1α was associated with high expression of MIB-1 (P=0.04), CD31 (P=0.03) and VEGF-A (P<0.0001), as well as necrosis (P=0.04). However, high HIF-1α expression was not correlated with cell type, largest macroscopic tumor dimension or thickness, anterior localization, pigmentation, mitotic figures or microcirculation patterns. Patients with high HIF-1α expression did not showed a reduced survival when compared with patients with low HIF-1α expression (P=0.92). Conclusions: An increase in HIF-1α expression is significantly associated with proliferative (MIB-1) and vascular (CD31 and VEGF-A) markers, as well as necrosis in UM. However, there is no correlation between high HIF-1α expression and patient survival. Commercial Relationships: Frederic Mouriaux, None; Francois Sans Chagrin, None; Caroline Diorio, None; Solange Landreville, None; François Comoz, None; Edwige Petit, None; Myriam Bernaudin, None; Alain P. Rousseau, None; Dan Bergeron, None; Mohib Morcos, None Support: The Québec Uveal Melanoma Infrastructure is financially supported by the Réseau de recherche en santé de la vision from the Fonds de recherche du Québec – Santé (FRQS) Program Number: 5062 Poster Board Number: A0007 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM MicroRNA-135a suppresses Uveal Melanoma Cell Proliferation and Migration Xiaoyan Chen1, Jiao Wang1, Lihua Wang1, Dan-Ning Hu2, Dongsheng Yan1. 1Sch of Ophthal & Optometry, Wenzhou Medical College, Wenzhou, China; 2Tissue Culture Center, The New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, New York, NY. Purpose: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can act as either oncogenes or tumor suppressors in tumorigenesis. Evidence indicates that some miRNAs are essential for uveal melanoma cell proliferation and migration. Nevertheless, the role of miR-135a in uveal melanoma remains unknown. Here, we investigated the function of miR-135a in uveal melanoma cells. Methods: Realtime RT-PCR was carried out to detect the expression of miR-135a in uveal melanoma specimens as well as normal controls. Transfection of miR-135a into uveal melanoma cells was performed by Lipofectamine RNAiMAX reagent. The proliferation of uveal melanoma cells was examined by MTS assay. Cell cycle was analyzed by flow cytometry. Cell migration was examined by transwell migration assay. Results: miR-135a was downregulated in uveal melanoma specimens as compared with normal controls. Transfection of miR-135a into uveal melanoma cells remarkably inhibited cell proliferation and blocked cell cycle at G1 phase. Furthermore, miR-135a suppressed cell migration. Conclusions: Our results demonstrated that miR-135a may act as a tumor suppressor in uveal melanoma cell proliferation and migration. Commercial Relationships: Xiaoyan Chen, None; Jiao Wang, None; Lihua Wang, None; Dan-Ning Hu, None; Dongsheng Yan, None Support: National Natural Science Foundation of China(81077682 & 81272286) Program Number: 5063 Poster Board Number: A0008 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM The effect of 17-AAG on focal adhesion kinase expression in uveal melanoma cell lines Dana Faingold, Silvin Bakalian, Vasco Bravo-Filho, Henry A. Wood, Maria Eugenia Orellana, Emilia Antecka, Miguel N. Burnier. Ophthalmology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada. Purpose: We have previously reported that focal adhesion kinase (FAK) was overexpressed in primary uveal melanoma (UM) and that phosphorylated FAK (pFAK) was detected in the most aggressive UM cell lines. The aim of this study is to compare the immunohistochemical profile of FAK and pFAK in UM to normal ocular tissues and to determine the effect of an Hsp90 inhibitor, 17AAG, on the expression of FAK and pFAK in UM cells. Methods: Immunohistochemical expression of FAK was evaluated in 39 UM specimens, pFAK expression was assessed in 51 UM specimens, and both FAK and pFAK expression were assessed in the uveal tract of 20 normal eyes. Immunohistochemical staining was assessed based on staining extent and intensity. For extent, specimens were scored “1” when less than 50% of the tumor cells stained, “2” when 50% to 80% of tumor cells stained, and “3” when more than 80% of tumor cells stained. Intensity was scored as follows: weak staining, “1”; moderate staining, “2”; and intense staining, “3”. The cases were grouped into low FAK expression when combined intensity and extent scores were between 1 and 4; and high FAK expression when total score was 5 and 6. Five UM cell lines (92.1, OCM-1, MKT-BR, SP6.5, and UW-1) were incubated with 10 mmol/L 17-AAG for 24, 48, and 72 hours. The expression of FAK and pFAK following treatment was determined by Western blot. Results: FAK was expressed in 87.2% of UM specimens, and 69.2% (n=27) were classified as having high FAK expression. pFAK was expressed in 90% of UM specimens and 60.8% (n=31) of the cases had high expression. We observed low FAK expression in non-tumor structures, such as choroidal melanocytes and the ciliary body, adjacent to UM tumors. Counterpart structures in normal eyes, including choroidal and ciliary body melanocytes, displayed negative or low cytoplasmic FAK and pFAK immunostaining. FAK and pFAK protein levels in all five cell lines decreased following treatment with 10 mmol/L of 17-AAG at 24, 48 and 72 hours. Conclusions: Higher expression of FAK and pFAK was observed in uveal melanomas compared to normal ocular melanocytes. Hsp90 inhibition downregulated FAK and pFAK expression in UM cell lines. Therefore, we hypothesize that there is a role of high ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology expression of FAK in uveal melanoma pathogenesis. Future studies are needed to explore the use of Hsp90 inhibitors for modulating FAK in uveal melanoma. Commercial Relationships: Dana Faingold, None; Silvin Bakalian, None; Vasco Bravo-Filho, None; Henry A. Wood, None; Maria Eugenia Orellana, None; Emilia Antecka, None; Miguel N. Burnier, None Program Number: 5064 Poster Board Number: A0009 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Comparing the lymphangiogenic impact of conjunctival and uveal melanoma cells Nasrin Refaian1, Konrad R. Koch1, Simona L. Schlereth1, Deniz Hos1, Jacobus J. Bosch2, Claus Cursiefen1, Ludwig M. Heindl1. 1 Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; 2Department of Internal Medicine 5, Hematology and Oncology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany. Purpose: A clinically relevant difference between malignant melanomas within the eye (uveal melanoma, UM) and those on the ocular surface (conjunctival melanoma, CM) consists in their distinct metastatic behaviour. CM has a propensity to first spread into regional lymph nodes. Contrarily, UM almost exclusively spreads into the liver via the hematogenic path, whereas lymphatic metastases have only been described in advanced cases with extrascleral tumor extension. The outgrowth of new lymphatics (lymphangiogenesis) is a major prerequisite for lymphatic spread (LS), which is driven by tumor-derived VEGF-C/-D secretion. The goal of this study was to evaluate whether diverging prolymphangiogenic potentials of CM and UM cells could contribute to the higher rate of LS in CM, as assessed via VEGF-C/-D expression, and the proliferation of lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs) cultivated in CM/UM cell conditioned medium. Methods: Human primary UM cells (OCM1, Mel270) and CM cells (CM2005.1) cultured in RPMI medium (10% FCS) were harvested for mRNA isolation followed by cDNA synthesis. Quantitative realtime PCR was performed to measure VEGF-C/-D expression. For MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2yl]-2,5-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide) based proliferation assays, LECs were seeded on a 96-well-plate (4000 cells/well), left to attach overnight, and then cultivated for 48 hours in 25%, 50%, or 75% UM/CM cell conditioned medium (1% FCS). MTT was added resulting in intracellular formazan deposition. The reaction was stopped after 3 hours. Absorbances were measured at 570 nm. Results: VEGF-C and -D were expressed by all three cell lines. VEGF-C expression was significantly higher in Mel270 (p<0.01) compared with OCM1 and CM2005.1. VEGF-D expression was similar in all analyzed cell lines (p>0.05). The proliferation rate of LECs was positively correlated with increasing proportions of Mel270-, OCM1-, CM2005.1-conditioned medium (p<0.05 for each melanoma cell line). CM2005.1-conditioned medium stimulated LEC proliferation to a significantly lower extent than UM cell lines OCM1 and Mel270 (p<0.05). Conclusions: CM cells did not show a higher prolymphaniogenic potential than UM cells. Accordingly, the higher rate of LS in CM is more likely attributable to the specific microenvironment at the ocular surface, which includes preexisting lymph vessels as potential access point for malignant cells, as opposed to the lymphatic free intraocular vicinity of UM. Commercial Relationships: Nasrin Refaian, None; Konrad R. Koch, None; Simona L. Schlereth, None; Deniz Hos, None; Jacobus J. Bosch, None; Claus Cursiefen, None; Ludwig M. Heindl, None Program Number: 5065 Poster Board Number: A0010 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Hemangiogenic profile of uveal versus conjunctival melanoma cell lines Ludwig M. Heindl1, Nasrin Refaian1, Simona L. Schlereth1, Deniz Hos1, Jacobus J. Bosch2, Claus Cursiefen1, Konrad R. Koch1. 1 Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; 2Department of Internal Medicine 5, Hematology and Oncology, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany. Purpose: Uveal and conjunctival melanoma (UM, CM) are distinct malignant entities, which show diverging patterns of metastatic spread. Hematogenic metastases, which are dependent on tumor cell driven formation of blood vessels (hemangiogenesis) within and surrounding the tumor, often occur in UM. In contrast, spreading of CM is less frequent and primarily affects regional lymph nodes. The purpose of the present study was to analyze whether these differences of hematogenic spread, which are of high prognostic relevance, could be attributable to differential hemangiogenic potentials of UM and CM cells. This was assessed by measuring (1) VEGF-A expression in UM and CM cells and (2) proliferation rates of blood endothelial cells (BECs) incubated with UM/CM cell conditioned medium. Methods: mRNA expression of VEGF-A by human primary UM cells OCM-1 and Mel-270 as well as CM cells CM2005.1 was measured by quantitative real-time PCR. For proliferation analysis, BECs were seeded on a 96-well-plate (4000 cells/well) and were left to attach for 24 hours. Hereafter cells were incubated with 50 % of BEC medium containing 1 % fetal calve serum and 50 % UM or CM cell conditioned medium. BrdU was added 1 hour later. Colorimetric analysis was performed after 48 hours of incubation at a measuring wavelength of 450 nm. Results: VEGF-A mRNA was expressed in all three cell lines. Mel-270 cells expressed VEGF-A mRNA to a lower extent than OCM-1 and CM2005.1 (p<0.05). The proliferation of BECs was significantly increased by adding conditioned medium of CM2005.1, OCM-1, or Mel-270 cells (p<0.05 for all groups). CM2005.1- and OCM-1-conditioned medium had a similar impact, while a smaller proliferative increase of BECs was found under the influence of Mel270 (p<0.05). Conclusions: Both UM and CM cells expressed VEGF-A, and increased BEC proliferation. Higher VEGF-A levels (independent of tumor cell origin) were associated with a stronger increase of proliferation. A reduced hemangiogenic potential of CM cells was not detectable. Other additional mechanisms within the tumor microenvironment might thus account for the lower hematogenic metastatic rate in CM. Commercial Relationships: Ludwig M. Heindl, None; Nasrin Refaian, None; Simona L. Schlereth, None; Deniz Hos, None; Jacobus J. Bosch, None; Claus Cursiefen, None; Konrad R. Koch, None Support: German Research Foundation HE 6743/2-1 Program Number: 5066 Poster Board Number: A0011 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Origin of Tumor-Associated Vessels and Vasculogenic Mimicry in an Intraocular Murine Melanoma Model Martina C. Herwig1, Marta M. Kilian1, Frank G. Holz1, Daniela Wenzel2, Karin U. Loeffler1. 1University Eye Clinic, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany; 2Institute of Physiology I, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany. Purpose: To study the origin of tumor-associated vessels and vasculogenic mimicry, which is associated with prognosis in human uveal melanoma, in an intraocular murine melanoma model. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Methods: Six Bac-Flt1-GFP mice (with vascular endothelium specifically labeled by eGFP) with a C57Bl/6 background received an intraocular injection of HCmel12 cells (which represent a skin melanoma cell line) in order to induce melanoma growth. The eyes were removed 10 days after tumor cell injection and the vascular pattern of the murine vessels were investigated with a Zeiss Axio Zoom microscope. Following our standardized imaging protocol, the eyes were immediately fixed in 4% paraformaldehyde and embedded in paraffin or submitted for cryoconservation. Immunohistochemical stains for von Willebrand factor (vWf), vascular endothelial cadherin (VEC) which is supposed to stain vasculogenic mimicry and vascular endothelial cell adhesions, and Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) as well as immunofluorescent stains for vWf and VEC were performed to characterize and distinguish between host-derived (GFPexpressing) vessels and tumor-derived vessels. Results: In this model, tumor growth could be induced in all experimental eyes. Macroscopic imaging showed a network of GFPlabelled vessels on the tumor surface. Histologic tumor characteristics comprised tumor cell pleomorphism, infiltration by inflammatory cells, cooption of blood vessels, and vasculogenic mimicry. Analysis of the immunohistochemical/immunofluorescence stains revealed an expression of GFP in all blood vessels including tumor vessels. Vasculogenic mimicry was neither labelled by GFP nor vWf. However, extracellular structures were partially stained with VEC. Conclusions: This preliminary study used a novel mouse model for intraocular melanoma which allows for discrimination between host- and tumor-derived vascular structures. The findings indicate that true intratumoral vessels had apparently a host-derived origin while vasculogenic mimicry structures were not derived from host vessels and are probably tumor-derived. Further studies in this model are needed to address potential factors for tumor vasculature and microcirculation and to further analyze the origin of vasculogenic mimicry. Commercial Relationships: Martina C. Herwig, None; Marta M. Kilian, None; Frank G. Holz, None; Daniela Wenzel, None; Karin U. Loeffler, None Support: BONFOR grant (in-house grant from the University Hospital Bonn) Program Number: 5067 Poster Board Number: A0012 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Cytological Characteristics of Uveal Melanoma Carlos A. Medina Mendez1, Charles V. Biscotti2, Nakul Singh3, Arun D. Singh1. 1Ophthalmology, Cole Eye Inst, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH; 2Department of Anatomic Pathology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH; 3Harvard School of Public Health, Harvard, Cambridge, MA. Purpose: To report on the cytological characteristics of choroidal melanoma. Methods: All patients with clinical diagnosis of choroidal melanoma from May 2009 to July 2012 who underwent prognostication FNAB were included. In this prospective, single center study of consecutive patients, clinical and diagnostic cytological characteristics of were analyzed. Results: A total of 141 FNAB samples of 141 patients. Fifty-three percent of the patients were male and the average age for all patients was 60 years. Transcorneal (7), transcleral (69) and transvitreal (63) approaches were used (Table 1). Of 141 samples, 129 adequate samples where obtained (91 % true positive). These included 121 samples that were positive for melanoma and 8 samples that contained atypical cells consistent with melanoma. Twelve samples were inadequate (7 unsatisfactory for interpretation, 2 negative for melanoma, and 3 non-diagnostic atypical cells). Average tumor height was 6.3mm for adequate samples and 3.3 mm for inadequate samples (p=0.0001). Median tumor height was 5 and 2.8mm for adequate and inadequate saples respectively. Sample adequacy was varied significantly (p=0.029) by FNAB approach (100% transcorneal, 97% transcleral, and 84% transvitreal). Spindle cells were observed in 98% of the samples (63% mixed and 25% spindle only) where as only epithelioid cells were observed in 2% samples). Melanin was present in 80% of samples (Table 2). Tumor nuclear grade (atypia) increased with tumor height and by tumor locations (least atypia with iris tumors). Conclusions: Cytological features such as spindle cells and melanin which where present in 98% and 80% of samples respectively are important diagnostic features. Iris melanoma has bland fetaures as compared to ciliary and choroidal melanoma. Thinner tumors (less than 3 mm in height) are likely to yield inadequate diagnostic FNAB sample. Commercial Relationships: Carlos A. Medina Mendez, None; Charles V. Biscotti, None; Nakul Singh, None; Arun D. Singh, None Support: Research to Prevent Blindness and The Falk Trust ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 5068 Poster Board Number: A0013 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Uveal Melanoma Cytology : Computer Assisted Diagnosis Arun D. Singh1, 2, Nathan Tenley3, Charles V. Biscotti4. 1Cole Eye Inst, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH; 2Ophthalmic Oncology, Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland, OH; 3Image IQ, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH; 4Anatomic Pathology, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH. Purpose: To develop a fully automated, customized image processing algorithm to quantify the total number of cells in a given cytological slide and to detect spindle cells as an aid in the diagnosis of uveal melanoma. Methods: Comparative masked study of ocular FNAB cytopathology slides prepared using standard laboratory techniques in a cytopathology laboratory. 10 cases of primary uveal melanoma and 5 cases of non-melanoma uveal tumors. The manual counts of all cells and spindle cells by an independent masked reader were recodered as standrad. The manual counts were compared to the automated counts (CAD) for each image tile to analyze the detection rates for any cell and spindle cells (Figure 1). The CAD algorithm was tuned to minimize the difference between the manual and computer assisted diagnosis (CAD) outputs for each image tile. Results: The manual counts for any cell ranged from 5.7 to 401.8 / μm2 (mean = 112.8) for non-melanoma cases and 7.1 to 112.1 / μm2 (mean = 49.5) for melanoma cases. The computer assisted and the manual counts had an average cell detection difference of 9.9 ± 19.2 for non-melanoma cases and 4.0 ± 7.1 for the melanoma cases (average 9.8%). There was no significant correlation between the cellularity of the slide and the percentage difference in counts. The spindle cell detection difference between computer assisted and the manual counts was 5.2 ± 4.6 and -7.6 ± 6.8 for the non-melanoma cases and melanoma cases, respectively. The computer assisted counts calculated the average spindle cell composition rate for non-melanoma and melanoma cases to be 4.53 ± 2.43% and 23.04 ± 9.65%, respectively. Conclusions: Automated digital methods can identify, quantify, and characterize spindle cells in an ocular FNAB cytopathology slide. Such automated system may be used to identify melanoma cases that could be verified by an expert cytopathologist at a remote site. Use of this computer assisted diagnostic tool can potentially be expanded for cytopathologic assessment of other tumors. Figure 1. Manual count training of cell and spindle cells. (A) Large field-of-view image comprised of 41,412 um2<\>> field-ofview (15 grids) at 0.185 um/pixel resolution. (B) Magnified view of single grid with manual cell counts (cyan dots) and spindle counts (red dots). (C) Analysis output from CAD algorithm associated to manual counts tile in B with cell counts (green dots) and spindle counts (red outline). Commercial Relationships: Arun D. Singh, None; Nathan Tenley, None; Charles V. Biscotti, None Support: RPB Program Number: 5069 Poster Board Number: A0014 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Morphologic Changes of Cultivated Uveal Melanoma Cells with Increasing of Passages Sahar Balagholi1, Narges Fazili1, Abouzar Bagheri1, Somayeh Asadi1, Mozhgan Rezaei Kanavi1, Hamid Ahmadieh1, Zahra-Soheila Soheili2, Shahram Samiei3. 1Ophtalmic Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran; 2 National Institue of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran; 3Iranian Blood Transfusion Organization Research Center, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran. Purpose: This study was conducted to investigate the morphologic changes of cultivated uveal melanoma (UM) cells with increasing number of passages. Methods: Immediately after enucleation of an eye with mixed celltyped UM, tumor tissue was obtained, digested with 1.25% trypsin, and cultivated in DMEM F12 with 20% FBS. The cultivated cells were passaged to reach the fifth passage. Immunocytochemistry for melan-A monoclonal antibody, as a melanoma marker, was performed to identify melanoma cells. All the experiments were done in duplicate. With increasing number of passages, morphologic changes of cultivated melanoma cells were investigated. Results: In the first passage, there was a mixture of epithelioid melanoma cells with owl’s eye nucleoli and spindle-shaped neurallike melanoma cells with dendritic processes. With increasing of passages, the predominant population of cultivated cells were epithelioid melanoma cells. However, the numbers of spindle-shaped neural-like melanoma cells were significantly reduced. Colony formation of tumor cells was observed in the third passage (Figure -1). ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Conclusions: Homogeneity of cultivated melanoma cells can be obtained through increasing number of passages. It seems that differentiated neural-like melanoma cells are more vulnerable to the increasing number of passages as compared to the less differentiated epithelioid melanoma cells. Figure 1. A- C: Cultivated UM cells in passages 1 (A), 2 (B), and 3 (C). Note the presence of epithelioid melanoma cells with owl’s eye nucleoli (circle 1), neural-like melanoma cells with dendritic processes (circle 2), and colony formation of cultivated UM cells (arrow). FITC of melan-A expression in cultivated UM cells (D), DAPI of nucleus (E) and merged FITC and DAPI of UM cells (F). Commercial Relationships: Sahar Balagholi, None; Narges Fazili, None; Abouzar Bagheri, None; Somayeh Asadi, None; Mozhgan Rezaei Kanavi, None; Hamid Ahmadieh, None; Zahra-Soheila Soheili, None; Shahram Samiei, None Program Number: 5070 Poster Board Number: A0015 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM The effects of macrophages on tumor growth characteristics in a mouse-model of intraocular melanoma Marta M. Kilian1, Karin U. Loeffler1, Hans E. Grossniklaus2, Frank G. Holz1, Christiane Pfarrer3, Christian Kurts4, Martina C. Herwig1. 1Ophthalmopathology, University Eye Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany; 2Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; 3Department of Anatomy, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany; 4Departments of Molecular Medicine and Experimental Immunology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany. Purpose: To investigate the influence of tumor associated macrophages and age dependency on clinicopathological factors of intraocular melanoma using a murine ocular tumor model Methods: Groups of 8-12 either untreated or systemically macrophage depleted CX3 CR1 GFP knock-in mice were examined at two different ages (young 8-10 weeks, old >10 months), respectively. After intravitreal injection of 1 x 105 HCmel12 melanoma cells, enucleation was performed at day 9. In histology (HE, PAS without hematoxylin), maximum intraocular tumor area was determined as well as co-option of retinal vessels, intratumoral endothelial lined vasculature and vasculogenic mimicry including its prognostic significant microcirculatory patterns. Microvasculature (VE Cadherin-Ab) and macrophage infiltration (GFP-Ab) in untreated mice were assessed by immunohistochemistry. Results: Over all groups, intratumoral endothelial-lined vasculature, vasculogenic mimicry and presence of microcirculatory patterns were not correlated with tumor size. Untreated old mice showed significantly more microcirculatory patterns compared with their younger counterparts. Macrophage depleted old mice exhibited significantly less patterns than untreated old mice. Compared to untreated mice of both age groups all macrophage depleted mice exhibited significant less patterns. Macrophage infiltration appeared to be more numerous in old than in the young mice. Conclusions: The findings in this mouse-model indicate that tumor associated macrophages seem to have impact particularly on the formation of microcirculatory patterns. In untreated old mice microcirculatory patterns were distinctive in contrast to macrophage depleted mice. Tumor associated macrophages may have influence on the presence of these patterns, which in humans are known to be correlated with metastasis and therefor with worse prognosis. Commercial Relationships: Marta M. Kilian, None; Karin U. Loeffler, None; Hans E. Grossniklaus, None; Frank G. Holz, None; Christiane Pfarrer, None; Christian Kurts, None; Martina C. Herwig, None Support: BONFOR Forschungsförderprogramm Program Number: 5071 Poster Board Number: A0016 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Morphologic and immunohistochemical features in the ageing Hgf-Cdk4 mouse eye Karin U. Loeffler1, Marta M. Kilian1, Frank G. Holz2, Thomas Tüting3, Martina C. Herwig1. 1Ophthalmology, Division of Ophthalmic Pathology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany; 2 Ophthalmology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany; 3Experimental Dermatology, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany. Purpose: Searching for an animal model of spontaneous or inducible uveal melanoma, we evaluated the ocular findings in an established mouse model of spontaneous skin melanoma with melanocytic proliferation and knock-out of a tumour suppressor gene (Hgf-Cdk4). This should also further clarify the role and impact of hepatocyte growth factor/scatter factor/deregulated receptor tyrosine kinase and cyclin-dependent kinase 4 on ocular melanocytes in comparison with dermal melanocytes. Methods: In total, 15 Hgf-Cdk4 mouse eyes were investigated, the emphasis being on the aged eye (11 months, n=12), and were compared with three 10 months old eyes from “regular” C57Bl/6 mice with a similar genetic background. Step sections were stained with H&E and PAS, and sections inbetween were labeled with antibodies (Abs) to Ki67 (proliferation marker), MART1 (‘melanoma antigen’) and F4/80 (macrophages). Prior to immunohistochemistry (IH), sections were bleached for better visualization of the chromogen (AEC). Results: Morphologically, the most marked difference in melanocytemodified mouse eyes was the appeareance of heavily pigmented cells in the anterior corneal stroma and along the chamber angle. No significant increase in epithelial pigmentation of either corneal or conjunctival epithelium was noted. Unequivocal proliferation of uveal melanocytes or RPE cells was also not observed however, the choroid appeared even somewhat less pigmented than in C57Bl/6 mice with some conspicuous cellular features. IH so far showed no significant difference in labeling between Hgf-Cdk4 and C57Bl/6 mouse eyes, and surprisingly, using our 3 Abs, the origin of the pigmented corneal cells (or the pigment) remains unclear. Also, Ki67 was negative while the overlying corneal/conjunctival epithelium showed some proliferative activity in all specimens. Conclusions: In Hgf-Cdk4 mouse eyes, no major difference in pigmentation or cellular components was observed in the ocular epithelium or in the posterior segment, and subtle findings so far were equivocal. Thus, although the Hgf-Cdk4 mouse develops spontaneous cutaneous melanomas, it does not qualify as a model for spontaneous conjunctival or uveal melanoma. However, remarkable changes regarding pigmentation were noted in the cornea and chamber angle in these animals, and further manipulation of the anterior segment ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology might allow creating models of anterior segment tumors and possibly also glaucoma. Commercial Relationships: Karin U. Loeffler, None; Marta M. Kilian, None; Frank G. Holz, None; Thomas Tüting, None; Martina C. Herwig, None Program Number: 5072 Poster Board Number: A0017 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM An Agonist of Toll-Like Receptor 5 Suppresses Hepatic Metastases in a Mouse Model with Ocular Melanoma Hua Yang1, Hans E. Grossniklaus1, Camille A. Benjamin2, Lyudmila Burdelya2, Qing Zhang1, Andrei V. Gudkov2. 1Ophthalmology, Emory University Eye Center, Atlanta, GA; 2Cell Stress Biology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, NY. Purpose: CBLB502, an agonist of toll-like receptor 5, is a polypeptide drug derived from Salmonella flagellin that binds to Tolllike receptor 5 (TLR5) and activates nuclear factor–kB signaling, and has been shown to have an effect on several animal models of liver metastasis, regardless of TLR5 expression. In this study, we investigate whether CBLB502 can inhibit hepatic metastases in a mouse model with ocular melanoma. Methods: To know whether CBLB502 is able to activate TLR5 in melanoma cells, an in vitro P65 translocation response was checked. Mouse melanoma cell lines B16LS9 and Queens were cultured and treated with 100ng/ml of CBLB502 or 10ng/ml of TNF alpha or PBS for 30 minutes, fixed and stained with anti-P65 antibody, and the intracellular location of P65 were determined by confocal microscopy. B16LS9 cells were inoculated into the choroid of right eye in C57BL/6 mice. 40 mice were divided into 4 groups including a PBS control group (n=10), CBLB502 starting at the day before tumor inoculation (n=10), CBLB502 starting at the day of tumor inoculation (n=10), CBLB502 starting at 3 day after tumor inoculation (n=10). Each mouse received sc 1ug/100ul of CBLB502 or PBS every 3 days. The inoculated eye was removed at 7 day and checked tumor growth with histology methods. The liver was collected at 21 days and the number of metastasis were microscopically enumerated. IHC for S100 and CD49b was performed. Results: After CBLB502 or positive control TNF alpha treatment, P65 was observed to translocate from the cytoplasm to the nucleus in B16LS9 and Queens cells. Animal experiments showed that CBLB502 significantly decreased the number of hepatic metastasis in three treatment groups compared with the PBS group. S100 staining confirmed the metastases were from ocular melanoma. We observed CD49b+ cells in liver or hepatic metastases in the treatment groups but not in the control group. Conclusions: The agonist of toll-like receptor 5, CBLB502 is able to activate TLR5 in melanoma cells, and suppress hepatic metastasis from ocular melanoma in a mouse model through attracting natural killer cells to the liver. CBLB502 may be a potential treatment for metastastic uveal melanoma to the liver. Commercial Relationships: Hua Yang, None; Hans E. Grossniklaus, None; Camille A. Benjamin, None; Lyudmila Burdelya, None; Qing Zhang, None; Andrei V. Gudkov, None Support: NIH R01CA176001 and RPB Purpose: To test the hypothesis that the histological and immunohistochemical findings in metastatic human uveal melanoma to the liver in a mouse model are similar to metastatic uveal melanoma to the liver in humans. Methods: Human uveal melanoma cell line Mel290 were cultured, and inoculated into the superchoroidal space in the right eyes of NU:NU mice via trans-scleral technique. The tumor-burden eyes were enucleated at the 7th day to determine primary tumor growth, and the livers were collected at the 1, 2, 6, or 12 weeks to determine the hepatic metastases. Histological examination and immunohistochemical staining were then performed. Results: Stage 1 metastases (defined as tumor clusters less than 50 μm in diameter) were identified in the sinusoidal spaces of 10 of 12 mice (83%). Stage 1 metastases were avascular and lacked mitotic activity. Stage 2 metastases (defined as tumors measuring 51-200 μm in diameter) were found in 8 mice sacrificed at the 6 or 12 weeks. Stage 3 metastases (defined as tumors measuring greater than 200 μm in diameter) were found in 4 mice sacrificed at 12 weeks. Immunohistochemical stains were positive for S100 or HMB45 in all tumors. Overall, stage 1 metastases out-numbered stage 2 metastases, which out-numbered stage 3 metastases (P less than 0.0001 and P less than 0.005, respectively). The mean vascular density and mitotic index increased from stage 1 to stage 3 metastases (P less than 0.01). The architecture of stage 2 metastases mimicked the surrounding hepatic parenchyma, with pseudosinusoidal spaces metastases stained with reticulin and lined by smooth muscle actin-positive activated stellate cells (myofibroblasts), whereas stage 3 metastases exhibited either lobular or portal growth patterns with tumor vascularization. Conclusions: The in vivo mouse model of human uveal melanoma is reliable and reproducible, and forms hepatic metastases which can be categorized as stage 1 micro-, stage 2 intermediate-, or stage 3 vascularized and mitotically active macro-metastases with a lobular or portal pattern of growth that mimics metastatic uveal melanoma to the liver in humans. Program Number: 5073 Poster Board Number: A0018 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Progression of Ocular Melanoma Metastasis to the Liver in Mouse Model Hans E. Grossniklaus1, 2, Qing Zhang1, Hua Yang1, Shou You2, Shin Kang1. 1Dept of Ophthal, School of Med, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; 2Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, GA. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Support: NIH R01CA176001 (HEG); P30EYE06360 (HEG); T32EY007092 (JML) Progression of metastatic uveal melanoma in mouse liver. Left: lobular pattern. Right: portal pattern. Top: Stage 1 micrometastases (arrow). Middle: Stage 2 intermediate tumors Bottom: Stage 3 metastases with vascularization (arrow). (asterisk=venule;hematoxylin and eosin, 100X) Commercial Relationships: Hans E. Grossniklaus, None; Qing Zhang, None; Hua Yang, None; Shou You, None; Shin Kang, None Support: NIH R01CA176001 and RPB, Inc. Program Number: 5074 Poster Board Number: A0019 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM The Role of a High Fat Diet in Liver Metastasis of Ocular Melanoma in C57BL/6 Mice John Lattier, Hua Yang, Hans E. Grossniklaus. Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA. Purpose: We have previously demonstrated increased progression of liver metastasis of ocular melanoma in mice deficient for pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF). Since PEDF null mice exhibit obesity and fatty liver, we hypothesized that fatty liver alone could provide an environment conducive for metastatic progression. Methods: C57BL/6 mice were placed on a high fat (60% kcal from fat) diet or a control (10%) diet for six weeks. Mice were then injected with B16-LS9 melanoma cells into the posterior compartment of the eye, and followed for one month while maintaining their diets. Afterwards, livers were collected for histological examination. Results: Mice on a high fat diet were significantly obese after two weeks. At the end point, their livers contained an increased amount of fatty lipid droplet content. However, the number and size of metastases in both high fat and low fat mice were equivalent. Conclusions: Fatty liver alone does not cause an increased number or size of liver metastases in a mouse model of ocular melanoma. Thus the increased metastatic progression seen in PEDF null mice must be due to another PEDF-related phenomenon such as angiogenesis or stromagenesis. Commercial Relationships: John Lattier, None; Hua Yang, None; Hans E. Grossniklaus, None Program Number: 5075 Poster Board Number: A0020 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Chick embryo model systems to study uveal melanoma metastasis Haleh Shahidipour1, Sarah E. Coupland1, Diana Moss1, Bertil E. Damato2, Helen Kalirai1. 1The University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom; 2University of San Fransisco, San Fransisco, CA. Purpose: Almost fifty percent of patients with uveal melanoma (UM) will develop fatal metastatic disease, which occurs predominantly in the liver. Despite significant improvements in the treatment of the ocular tumour, patient mortality has not improved and most metastatic lesions remain untreatable. Little is known about the mechanisms by which UM cells metastasise to and colonise the liver. We have developed a chick embryo model of spontaneous and direct metastasis allowing for the processes of UM tumour development, intravasation, extravasation and dissemination to be studied. Methods: At embryonic day 3, a small window was made in the shell and GFP labelled Omm1 UM cells were either: 1) inoculated onto the lowered chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) – spontaneous metastasis model; or 2) injected directly into the circulation of the chick embryo – direct metastasis model. At embryonic day 7, tumour nodules that had formed on the CAM were excised, fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin and embedded for immunohistochemical analyses. Internal organs were examined for the presence of UM cells in both model systems under a fluorescence microscope, prior to fixation and embedding. All experiments were repeated at least three times. Results: Omm1 UM cells formed tumour nodules within the CAM, at embryonic day 14, which were associated with an overlying network of chick embryo blood vessels. Immunohistochemical analyses of cross sections of the tumour nodules demonstrated the presence of MelanA positive cells surrounded by chick embryo CAM, internal blood vessels and a high Ki67 staining index. Omm1 cells were not observed in any internal organs in the spontaneous metastasis model after seven days. Following direct injection of Omm1 cells into the chick embryo circulation, tumour cell deposits were observed microscopically in the eye, liver and kidneys after seven days. Immunohistochemistry showed numerous micro- and macro- metastatic liver deposits which stained positively for MelanA and demonstrated a low Ki67 growth fraction. Conclusions: Chick embryo metastasis model systems can be used to provide important information on the specific behavioural patterns of UM cells during individual stages of metastatic dissemination. Future studies will utilise these systems to study the functional mechanisms of individual metastasis-related genes. Commercial Relationships: Haleh Shahidipour, None; Sarah E. Coupland, None; Diana Moss, None; Bertil E. Damato, None; Helen Kalirai, None Support: Eye Tumour Research Fund A0814 Program Number: 5076 Poster Board Number: A0021 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM sIL-2R an immuno-biomarker for prediction of metastases in uveal melanoma Vivian Barak1, Jacob Pe’er2, Inna Kalickman1, Shahar Frenkel2. 1 Immunology Laboratory for Tumor Diagnosis, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel; 2Ophthalmology, Hadassah-Hebrew University Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel. Purpose: High serum levels of sIL-2R have been reported in acute inflammations and in several types of cancer, especially in the metastatic stage. The aim of the present study was to evaluate ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology the potential of increased sIL-2R levels to predict metastatic uveal melanoma (UM). Methods: Serum levels of sIL-2R were analyzed by ELISA. The study included a total of 152 subjects: 74 patients with metastasis (Mets), 42 10-year disease-fee (10yDF) patients, and 36 healthy controls (CTRL). Patients were followed up biannually with liver US for the presence of Mets. Blood samples were obtained from the time of primary diagnosis, and on every follow-up visit. Sera from before and after the diagnosis of metastases were assessed by a matched pairs analysis for the 74 Mets patients. Results: The mean±SE (range) sIL-2R levels for the 3 groups were: 575±41 (107- 1257), 780±60 (313- 1830), and 1401±146 (380- 8969) U/ml for CTRL, 10yDF, and Mets, respectively (p= 0.03). Conclusions: Significantly higher serum sIL-2R levels were shown in UM pts with metastases. Significant increases in sIL-2R levels on serial evaluations indicate the development of UM metastases, enabling earlier treatment for a better survival of those patients. Commercial Relationships: Vivian Barak, None; Jacob Pe’er, None; Inna Kalickman, None; Shahar Frenkel, None Program Number: 5077 Poster Board Number: A0022 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Lack of BAP1 germline gene mutation in patients with early onset uveal melanoma Elaine M. Binkley1, Colleen M. Cebulla1, Robert Pilarski2, James B. Massengill1, Meghan J. Marino3, Arun D. Singh3, Mohamed H. Abdel-Rahman1, 2. 1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH; 2Division of Human Genetics, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH; 3The Cole Eye Institute, The Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH. Purpose: Germline mutations in the tumor suppressor gene BAP1 have been found to be important to the pathogenesis of uveal melanoma and an associated familial cancer syndrome. This BAP1 syndrome results in a predisposition to uveal melanoma, cutaneous melanoma, mesothelioma, and renal cell carcinoma. Early onset of uveal melanoma is a feature of hereditary cancer predisposition syndromes. This study aims to determine the prevalence of BAP1 germline mutations in a series of young patients with uveal melanoma, diagnosed before age 30. We hope to help better define risk factors for disease pathogenesis and risk for transmission to offspring in this subset of uveal melanoma patients. Methods: Approval for this project was obtained from the Institutional Review Board of the Ohio State University. Peripheral blood samples were obtained from a series of 11 patients with early onset uveal melanoma (average age 22.6 years, range 3 months to 29 years). Germline DNA was extracted from peripheral blood leukocytes. BAP1 sequencing was then carried out using direct sequencing of all exons and adjacent intronic sequences. Results: All 11 patients were negative for pathogenic germline mutation in BAP1. One patient had an intronic variant of uncertain significance (c.123-48T>G). Similarly, family history of the most specific BAP1 syndrome cancers (uveal melanoma, mesothelioma, and renal cell carcinoma) was negative in all patients, while 2 families had family history of cutaneous melanoma. Other cancers present in the families included lymphoma, lung, breast, colon, pancreatic, cervical, uterine, ovarian, prostate, bone, and brain. Conclusions: This work suggests that germline mutation in genes other than BAP1 likely play a greater role in the underlying genetic predisposition to early onset uveal melanoma. Future work will be directed at identifying additional genes which may be altered in these patients. Commercial Relationships: Elaine M. Binkley, None; Colleen M. Cebulla, None; Robert Pilarski, None; James B. Massengill, None; Meghan J. Marino, None; Arun D. Singh, None; Mohamed H. Abdel-Rahman, None Support: Ohio Lions Eye Research Foundation; K08EY022672; Patti Blow Research Fund; American Cancer Society IRG-67-003-47; Melanoma Know More Foundation; Ocular Melanoma Foundation Program Number: 5078 Poster Board Number: A0023 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Elevated NG2 expression and Rho-kinase activity in the uveal melanoma cells with monosomy-3 Aysegul Tura, Julia Lueke, Mihaela Reinsberg, Matthias Luecke, Salvatore Grisanti. Department of Ophthalmology, University Clinic Schleswig-Holstein, Luebeck, Germany. Purpose: Presence of monosomy-3 in the uveal melanoma (UM) cells is associated with a higher risk of mortality due to metastasis particularly into the liver. Currently, there are no effective treatment options to restrain the UM metastasis. The major liver-borne trophic factors like hepatocyte growth factor and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) can activate the Rho/Rho-kinase pathway in diverse cell types. In this study, we analysed the outcomes of the conditioned medium from hepatocytes (HCM) on the metastatic potential of the UM cells together with the Rho-kinase activity and monosomy-3 status. Methods: Circulating uveal melanoma cells (CMC) were immunomagnetically isolated from the freshly collected blood of n=21 UM patients. Cultures of UM cells were established from the primary tumor of a UM-patient operated in our clinic. Immuno-FISH was performed to detect chromosome-3 in the cells specifically expressing NG2, Ki67, or pMYPT1, the major downstream target of Rho-kinase. Cultured UM cells were incubated with the Rho-kinase inhibitor H-1152 for 1 to 3 days. Proliferation was analysed by Ki67 immunostaining and EdU incorporation. Cell motility was evaluated by the scratch assay. Levels of vimentin, beta-catenin, cleaved caspase-3, and IGF-1 were determined by immunocytochemistry and blotting. Results: The melanoma associated chondroitin sulphate proteoglycan (NG2), an upstream activator of RhoA/RhoC, was expressed at significantly higher levels in both the CMC and the cultured UM cells having monosomy-3. HCM led to a significant increase in the expression of vimentin and beta-catenin and the motility of the UM cells possibly due to the elevated levels of IGF-1. HCM also promoted the proliferation of UM cells having monosomy-3, together with an increase in Rho-kinase activity. Inhibition of Rho-kinase with H-1152 suppressed the proliferation of UM-cells with monosomy-3 (p<0.05), reduced the expression of beta-catenin and vimentin, and promoted apoptosis. Conclusions: UM cells with monosomy-3 exhibited a higher expression level of NG2 and an associated increase in Rho-kinase activity, which may be involved in the elevated metastatic potential of these cells in response to hepatocyte-derived growth factors. Pharmacological inhibition of Rho-kinase therefore emerges as a noteworthy strategy to suppress UM metastasis into the liver. Commercial Relationships: Aysegul Tura, None; Julia Lueke, None; Mihaela Reinsberg, None; Matthias Luecke, None; Salvatore Grisanti, None ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 5079 Poster Board Number: A0024 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Comparison of uveal melanoma prognostication test results of the ‘paired’ intraocular biopsy with the subsequently enucleated eye Sarah E. Coupland1, Helen Kalirai1, Vivian Ho2, Bertil E. Damato3, Heinrich Heimann2. 1Molecular and Clinical Cancer Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom; 2 Ophthalmology, Royal Liverpool University Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom; 3Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, CA. Purpose: To compare the accuracy of genetic results for chromosome 3 aberrations from a fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) with those from a subsequent enucleation specimen in uveal melanoma (UM) patients who underwent prognostic testing in Liverpool, UK. Methods: UM patients who underwent routine genetic testing for prognostic purposes of an initial biopsy specimen and a subsequent enucleation specimen between 2010 and 2013 were included in this study. Depending on DNA yield, specimens underwent molecular testing by either microsatellite analysis (MSA) or multiplex ligation dependent probe amplification (MLPA). Data for chromosome 3 status were then compared between the ‘paired’ tumour samples. During this period of 3 years, 111 UM patients seen at the Liverpool Ocular Oncology Centre had undergone genetic tumour testing by MSA, and an additional 429 patients by MLPA. Results: Paired biopsy and enucleation data were available for 17 patients (5 female and 12 male). The median largest basal diameter of the tumours was 15.8mm (range 9.2-20.4mm). The median followup time was 1.5 years (range 0.15-3.3 years). Epithelioid cells were present in nine tumours. Seven biopsy specimens were analysed by MLPA, the remainder being analysed by MSA. All seventeen enucleation specimens were analysed by MLPA for chromosomes 1p, 3, 6 and 8. Chromosome 3 data showed complete concordance between the biopsy samples and enucleated eyes in all 17 cases. Eight patients were classified as monosomy 3 (M3) and nine as disomy 3. These results were incorporated for patient further management purposes in the Liverpool Uveal Melanoma Prognostication Online model. During the follow-up period, one of the eight patients with a tumour classified as M3, died at the time of data analysis. Conclusions: It is feasible to obtain DNA of sufficient quality and quantity from FNAB specimens of UM with no loss of prognostic accuracy compared with DNA extracted from the enucleated eyes. In this cohort, tumour cell- or clonal heterogeneity did not play a major role in affecting the results. Commercial Relationships: Sarah E. Coupland, None; Helen Kalirai, None; Vivian Ho, None; Bertil E. Damato, None; Heinrich Heimann, None Results: A total number of 151 patients with either Ciliary or choroidal melanoma were treated at Copenhagen University Hospital between 1 jan 2009 and 31 dec 2012. in 12 cases no genetic information were found. 27.5% of the patients had a normal chromosome status. Normal chromosomal status was found in 9 of 26 stage 1, 28 of 91 stage 2, 4 of 32 stage 3 and 0 of 2 stage 4 patients. A overall survival rate of 63 % after 4 years were observed. Only 1 melanoma related death was observed in the group with normal chromosomal status. There was a direct correlation between AJCC staging and death and number of abnormal chromosomes and death. A combination of AJCC staging and chromosomal status gave the best prediction of melanoma related death. Conclusions: AJCC staging and chromosomal status are good predictors of survival. For prediction of melanoma related death a combination of AJCC staging and chromosomal status gave the best results Program Number: 5080 Poster Board Number: A0025 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM The correlation between survival and AJCC staging and genetic status in uveal melanoma patients Jens F. Kiilgaard1, 4, Mette Bagger1, 2, Morten T. Andersen2, Steffen Heegaard3, 4, Mette K. Andersen2. 1Dept of Ophthalmology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; 2Dept of Clinical Genetics, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark; 3inst of Eye Patology, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark; 4Dept of Ophthalmology, Glostrup Hospital, Glostrup, Denmark. Purpose: To evaluate the predictive value of genetic status and AJCC Staging in patients with uveal melanoma. Methods: Patient charts for patients treated during 2009 and 2012 were reviewed. Information on survival, AJCC stage and Chromosomal status were collected. Program Number: 5081 Poster Board Number: A0026 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM The value of whole body (18) fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/ computed tomography (CT) and abdominal ultrasound in staging of patients with uveal melanoma Efthymia Pavlidou1, 2, Amit Arora1, 2, Elizabeth Somerville1, 2, Mandeep S. Sagoo1, 2, Peter Szlosarek3, Victoria Cohen1, 2. 1Ocular Oncology, St Bartholomew’s, London, United Kingdom; 2Ocular Oncology, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, United Kingdom; 3 Oncology, St Bartholomew’s, London, United Kingdom. Purpose: To determine the value of whole body (18) fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/ computed tomography (CT) and abdominal ultrasound in staging of patients with uveal melanoma. Methods: From January 2012 patients with uveal malignant melanoma over 4 mm in thickness, were staged with whole body Commercial Relationships: Jens F. Kiilgaard, None; Mette Bagger, None; Morten T. Andersen, None; Steffen Heegaard, None; Mette K. Andersen, None ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology (18) fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) PET/CT and abdominal ultrasound. The incidence and location of metastatic disease at diagnosis was recorded. The imaging findings were compared. Results: 108 patients had a whole body FDG PET/CT and abdominal ultrasound at primary diagnosis. 3 patients (2.8%) were found to have metastatic disease. All 3 had liver metastases, confirmed with biopsy in only one case. 1 of 3 had additional extrahepatic widespread metastases in the lungs, lymph nodes and bone seen on whole body FDG PET/CT. In the 3 patients with metastatic disease, the liver findings using both imaging techniques were consistent in one patient. In the second case abdominal ultrasound misdiagnosed metastatic disease as liver cysts; however, FDG PET/CT revealed several foci of intense metabolic activity in both lobes of the liver. In the third case, PET/ CT missed the presence of liver metastases as no metabolic activity was detected, however a hypodense liver lesion was identified on abdominal ultrasound. An abdominal CT scan with contrast confirmed the presence of an enlarging liver metastasis. PET/CT identified second primary malignancies in 9 patients (8.3%) and incidental extrahepatic pathology in another 9 patients (8.1%). Coincidental liver findings, such as fatty liver and haemangiomata, were seen in 20 patients (18.5%) using abdominal ultrasound but only 4 (3.7%) using whole body PET/CT. Conclusions: Whole body PET/CT and abdominal ultrasound complement each other in the staging of uveal melanoma. PET/CT is useful to detect extrahepatic disease including widespread metastases and other primary malignancies. The metabolic activity of uveal melanoma metastases is variable. Abdominal ultrasound provides more detailed description of the liver and detected an abnormality in all 3 cases with liver metastases. Commercial Relationships: Efthymia Pavlidou, None; Amit Arora, None; Elizabeth Somerville, None; Mandeep S. Sagoo, None; Peter Szlosarek, None; Victoria Cohen, None Program Number: 5082 Poster Board Number: A0027 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Capture of circulating melanoma cells using a microfluidic device Qing Zhang1, 2, Shuo You3, 4, Wilbur A. Lam5, Jordan Ciciliano6, Shin Kang1, Hua Yang1, Hans E. Grossniklaus1, 3. 1Opthalmology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA; 2Ophthalmology, Central South University the Second Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, China; 3Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; 4 Endocrinology, Central South University, the Second Xiangya Hospital,, Changsha, China; 5Pediatrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA; 6Laney Graduate School, Emory University, Atlanta, GA. Purpose: Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are present in metastatic cancers and may potentially be used for disease profiling and prognostication. Herein we developed a microfluidic device to isolate circulating melanoma cells (CMCs). Methods: Human uveal melanoma Mel 270 and Mel 290, and mouse melanoma B16F10, B16LS9 cell lines were cultured. Murine intraocular xenografts were performed via trans-scleral inoculation or mice were injected with melanoma cells via the tail vein. A microfluidic system, casted in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), was used to capture viable tumor cells from PBS, spiked blood and peripheral whole blood samples mediated by the interaction of target CMCs with antibodies-coated microchannels under precisely controlled flow conditions. Results: The microfluidic-based system exhibited high capture rates for B16F10, B16LS9, Mel 270 and Mel 290 cell lines in PBS- or blood-spiked screening experiments. Increased cell capture rates were found with relatively slow flow rates and high cell concentrations. Using an experimental metastasis model established by tail vein injection in severe combined immunodeficient mice, we successfully isolated CMCs from peripheral blood samples. The system further allowed detection of CMCs in a mouse model of xenografts with metastatic melanoma. Conclusions: The study shows antibody-based capture of circulating melanoma cells using a microfluidic device in tumor-bearing mice. This microfluidic-based system exhibits promise as a clinical tool for capturing circulating uveal melanoma cells. Commercial Relationships: Qing Zhang, None; Shuo You, None; Wilbur A. Lam, None; Jordan Ciciliano, None; Shin Kang, None; Hua Yang, None; Hans E. Grossniklaus, None Support: NIH R01CA170006, RPB, Inc., National Natural Science Funds for Young Scientist, and a Central South University Lieying pilot grant. Program Number: 5083 Poster Board Number: A0028 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Small metastasizing choroidal melanomas: Report of 6 cases Ariane Malcles, Anh-Minh Nguyen, Laurent Kodjikian, Philippe Denis, Jean-Daniel Grange. Ophtalmology, Croix Rousse Hospital, LYON, France. Purpose: Small choroidal melanomas have a better prognosis than large tumors. However these small tumors can spread, often late in their course.The aim of the study was to analyse survival and tumor characteristics of 6 cases of late metastatic diseases after conservative treatment. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted among 523 patients treated between 1991 and 2010 by proton beam therapy (508) or brachytherapy with 106 Ru/Rh (15) for uveal melanomas. We have selected patients with small choroidal melanoma (thickness ≤ 3 mm and diameter ≤ 9 mm) (59 patients), who have developed liver metastases (6 out of 59). All tumors were classified T1a at the time of diagnosis (according to the 7th edition of the TNM stagging system). Results: At the time of diagnosis, median age was 57 years (range, 37-82 years). Four patients had visual symptoms (blurred vision, metamorphopsia, floaters). The mean tumor thickness was 2.9 mm (range 2.5mm – 3mm) and the mean diameter was 7 mm (5mm8mm). Orange pigment was observed in 4 cases, subretinal fluid in 2 cases, and one tumor touched the optic disc. Five patients had proton beam therapy. One patient had beta brachytherapy (106 Ru/106 Rh). Average follow-up was 8.3 years (range 4.2 to 11.8 years). Local ocular tumor control was excellent, none tumor recurred after local treatment. The mean survival time after diagnosis of melanoma was 9.8 years (range, 4.9-14.6 years). The average time from treatment of primary tumor to detection of liver metastasis was 7 years (range 3.9 to 12 years). The mean survival time from the diagnosis of metastasis was 35,2 months (range 9 to 101 months). Small melanoma-related death was 0% at 3 years, 1.7% at 5 years, 5.1% at 10 years, and 10.2% at 15 years in our series. Conclusions: Despite a small tumoral size and an early and effective local treatment 6 out of 59 small choroidal melanomas have developed metastasis several years after local treatment. Small tumors represent a significant risk of metastasis. Commercial Relationships: Ariane Malcles, None; Anh-Minh Nguyen, None; Laurent Kodjikian, None; Philippe Denis, None; Jean-Daniel Grange, None ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 5084 Poster Board Number: A0029 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Efficacy and Safety of Transpupillary Thermotherapy for Small Choroidal Melanomas Yi Jiang, Rebecca Deutsch, Jack A. Cohen. Ophthalmology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL. Purpose: To investigate the efficacy and the complications of transpupillary thermotherapy on small sized choroidal melanomas and nevomas used as primary treatment. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed all patients seen from January 2000 to September 2013 that received transpupillary thermotherapy for small choridal melanomas or nevomas. We limited the inclusion size of the melanomas to 4 millimeters in thickness. We also excluded any patient that had received other treatments prior to receiving transpupillary thermotherapy. Results: There were 34 eyes from 34 patients. 17 (50.0%) patients were male and 17 (50.0%) were female. The mean age was 58.3 years (23-89). The mean follow up time was 60.8 months (4-149). Average tumor thickness was 2.89mm (1.1-4.0). Of all patients, 18 (52.9%) patients ultimately achieved local tumor control with transpupillary thermotherapy alone while 16 (47.1%) patients had to undergo other treatments to control their melanoma. 6 patients (37.5%) ultimately had enucleations, 7 patients (43.8%) underwent brachytherapy, 2 patients (12.5%) had photodynamic therapy, and 2 patients (12.5%) had proton beam radiation therapy. Of the 18 patients which were controlled with transpupillary thermotherapy, 10 patients (55.6%) had good control with one treatment session. 8 patients ultimately had more than one treatment session – 6 patients had two sessions (33.3%), 1 patient (5.6%) had 3 treatments sessions, and 1 patient (5.6%) had 7 treatment sessions. Of the 34 total patients, 17 (50.0%) had control without recurrence while 15 patients (44.1%) had at least one recurrence and 2 patients (5.9%) had primary treatment failure. In total, 59 sessions of transpupillary thermotherapy performed and there were 10 reported complications – 5 incidences (8.5%) of vitreous hemorrhage, 2 incidences (3.4%) of retinal striae formation, 1 (1.7%) branch retinal vein occlusion, 1 (1.7%) subretinal hemorrhage, and 1(1.7%) rhegmatogenous retinal detachment. Conclusions: Transpupillary thermotherapy has a good safety profile with a low complication rate and can be employed when brachytherapy, proton beam therapy, or enucleation is not desired. The treatment is limited, however, by the significant recurrence rate and need for repeat treatments. Commercial Relationships: Yi Jiang, None; Rebecca Deutsch, None; Jack A. Cohen, None Program Number: 5085 Poster Board Number: A0030 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Outcomes of Medium Choroidal Melanomas Treated with EyePhysics Ruthenium Plaque Brachytherapy Andrew Browne1, 2, Jesse L. Berry1, 2, Savita Dadapanai3, Marta Stevanovic4, Thomas C. Lee5, 1, Melvin Astrahan3, A. Linn Murphree5, 1 , Jonathan W. Kim5, 1. 1Ophthalmology, Doheny Eye Institute, Los Angeles, CA; 2Ophthalmology, Univ of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA; 3RadiationOncology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA; 4Harvard College, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA; 5Ophthalmology, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA. Purpose: The Collaborative Ocular Melanoma Study (COMS) established Iodine 125 plaque brachytherapy as the standard eye preservation treatment for medium sized choroidal melanomas in the United States. Plaque Simulator (PS) software guided treatment utilizing Eye Physics (EP) plaques provides optimal treatment by enabling customizable radiation profiles for a variety of tumor shapes and sizes. Berry et. al. recently reported EP customized Iodine-125 therapy with similar results to the COMS Iodine-125 non-custom plaques. Herein we report results from a series of 15 patients treated with EP custom Ruthenium Plaque Brachytherapy. Methods: Fifteen patients with medium sized choroidal melanomas (2.84-5.5 mm in apical height and a basal diameter of 7.8-12.6mm) treated with ruthenium-based brachytherapy from 2003-2005 were evaluated in a retrospective chart review. Baseline and follow-up data were collected and evaluated for: tumor height, best corrected visual acuity, radiation retinopathy, radiation optic neuropathy, postradiation cataract formation, diplopia and ptosis. Tumor response kinetics for EP ruthenium plaques, EP iodine plaques were evaluated and compared. Results: Incidences of adverse radiation effects were documented: optic neuropathy (6.7%), retinopathy (20%), and cataracts (33%) (Table). Tumor height after therapy demonstrated regression profiles equivalent to tumors treated with Iodine-125 plaques. Five year tumor heights for radiation treated tumors were approximately 0.61 +/- 0.29 (iodine, n=16) and 0.53 +/- 0.17 (ruthenium, n= 6) relative to their heights at diagnosis (Figure). Conclusions: This patient subset had background characteristics very similar to those from the COMS and patients treated with EP iodine-125 plaques. Treatment response was equivalent and radiation complications occurred slightly less frequently than those patients treated with iodine-125 radiation. Tumors treated with EP brachytherapy shrink to about 50-60% of their initial height at diagnosis. EP plaque brachytherapy demonstrates similar results with COMS plaques regardless of radiation source. Table: a. Baseline characteristics of patients b. Tumor response and clinical outcomes. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Conclusions: In our cohort of patients with large CMM treated with primary plaque brachytherapy, 15.1% required secondary enucleation. This information allows us to better counsel our patients about the pros and cons of primary brachytherapy as opposed to primary enucleation, help to minimize the potential burden of additional surgical procedures, and improve quality of life. Commercial Relationships: Brian Tse, None; Yevgeniy Shildkrot, None; Matthew W. Wilson, None Support: Research to Prevent Blindness Figure: Tumor response to plaque brachytherapy with Iodine (blue) and Ruthenium (Green). The subgroup of patients who were treated with Iodine and developed metastasis are plotted in Red. Commercial Relationships: Andrew Browne, None; Jesse L. Berry, None; Savita Dadapanai, None; Marta Stevanovic, None; Thomas C. Lee, None; Melvin Astrahan, Eye Physics, LLC (I); A. Linn Murphree, None; Jonathan W. Kim, None Program Number: 5086 Poster Board Number: A0031 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Enucleation After Iodine-125 Plaque Brachytherapy in Patients with Large Choroidal Melanomas Brian Tse1, 2, Yevgeniy Shildkrot3, Matthew W. Wilson1, 2. 1Dept of Ophthalmology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN; 2Dept of Surgery, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN; 3Dept of Ophthalmology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA. Purpose: Treatment of choroidal melanoma (CMM) with either iodine-125 (I125) plaque brachytherapy or enucleation yields similar survival outcomes. As such, we have used brachytherapy as primary treatment for large CMMs for more than a decade. Herein, we evaluate our cohort of patients with large CMM initially treated with plaque brachytherapy to determine rate of and factors associated with secondary enucleation. Methods: A retrospective chart review of patients with large CMMs diagnosed and treated at our institution from January 1, 1988 to February 1 2013. Main outcome measures were need for secondary enucleation, local tumor recurrence, all cause mortality, development of metastases, initial apical tumor height and maximal basal diameter. Results: 245 patients with large CMM were treated primarily with plaque brachytherapy. Local control was achieved in 230 patients (93.8%). Of the 15 patients (6.2%) with local recurrence, 8 underwent secondary enucleation and 7 deferred further treatment. In all, 37 patients (15.1%) underwent secondary enucleation. Reasons for secondary enucleation included: neovascular glaucoma or blind, painful eye (21); local tumor recurrence (8), and scleromalacia (3). All cause mortality was 116 (47.3%). Metastatic disease was seen in 68 (27.9%). Median time to death was 2.8 years (mean 3.6 +/- 2.7 (0.08-16.7)). Enucleation was performed more frequently in women (20.2% vs 10.3%; p=0.03). Rate of metastases (p>0.7) and death were not increased in patients undergoing enucleation, although time to death appeared to be prolonged in patients who were enucleated (5.6 years vs 3.2 years; p<0.0001). There was no significant difference (p>0.1) in baseline apical tumor height, maximal basal diameter, collar-button configuration, or age at diagnosis Program Number: 5087 Poster Board Number: A0032 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Evaluation of a Vision Prognostication Model for Choroidal Melanoma after Plaque Brachytherapy Saloomeh Saati1, Jesse L. Berry1, 4, Savita V. Dandapani2, Marta Stevanovic3, A. Linn Murphree4, Melvin Astrahan2, Jonathan W. Kim4, 1 1 . Ophthalmology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA; 2Radiation Oncology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA; 3 Harvard College, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA; 4The Vision Center, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA. Purpose: To retrospectively evaluate and apply a vision prognostication model for patients with choroidal melanoma treated with Iodine-125 university of southern california (USC) eye physics plaque brachytherapy. Methods: A visual nomogram was generated to predict a percentage of likely visual loss to the level of 20/200 or worse after plaque brachytherapy for choroidal melanoma by Khan et al. Gender, tumor height, and dose to macula were found to be the most significant predictors for vision loss after therapy in their nomogram.To evaluate the effectiveness of this nomogram for our patient population, we included 64 patients with primary choroidal melanomas treated with Iodine -125 eye physics plaques at USC from January 1, 1990 through December 30, 2010. Final endpoint was comparing actual vs. predicted visual acuity (VA) per the nomogram worse than or equal 20/200 at 1 year post brachytherapy. All patients with initial pretreatment VA less than 20/200 were excluded. Results: Of 64 patients with pre-treatment VA better than 20/200, 44 % (28) had post- treatment VA equal or worse than 20/200 and 56% (36) had post- treatment VA better than 20/200. Concordance index of 0.60 and 0.56 was calculated between actual and predicted loss of vision worse than or equal to 20/200 at 1 year at the level of 50% and 75% respectively according to the nomogram described by Khan et al. Concordance was not significantly different between the two levels. Both a threshold of 50% and 75% predicted visual loss correctly in our patients approximately 60% of the time. Lack of vision loss to the level of 20/200 or worse was predicted correctly 87% of time at the 50% threshold and 94% of time at the 75% threshold. Loss of vision to the level of 20/200 or worse was predicted correctly 12% and 5% of time at the threshold of 50% and 75% respectively. Conclusions: The described visual prognostication model by Khan et. al. is a practical, easy to use, first step for clinicians and patients to predict vision loss after brachytherapy for choroidal melanomas. In our application of this nomogram, the prediction of vision loss to the level of 20/200 or worse was correct 60% of the time at both a predicted threshold of 50% and 75%. In our series, the nomogram predicted <lack> of vision loss more accurately than vision loss. Further research to refine the nomogram may be helpful to develop a valuable model for patients and clinicians. Commercial Relationships: Saloomeh Saati, None; Jesse L. Berry, None; Savita V. Dandapani, None; Marta Stevanovic, None; A. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Linn Murphree, None; Melvin Astrahan, Eye Physics, LLC (I); Jonathan W. Kim, None Program Number: 5088 Poster Board Number: A0033 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM EDI-OCT for early evaluation of recurrence after ruthenium brachitherapy for choroidal melanoma Monica M. Pagliara, Maria Grazie Sammarco, Francesca Leonardi, Andrea Scupola, Caputo G. Carmela, Aldo Caporossi, Maria Antonietta Blasi. Department of Ophthalmology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy. Purpose: To compare the use of EDI-OCT and ultrasonography for early detection of marginal recurrence in posterior uveal melanoma treated with brachitherapy. Methods: recently available EDI-OCT has allowed to detect early recurrences of uveal melanoma after brachytherapy in 3 eyes of 3 patients (1 male and 2 female). Inclusion criteria were: posterior pole localization and rapidly regression to a flat scar. Every 4 months, all patients underwent complete follow-up visit including fundus examination, fundus photography (Panoret), ultrasonography and EDI using SD OCT with the Heidelberg Spectralis (Heidelberg Engineering, Heidelberg. Germany). Results: in these patients, EDI-OCT was able to confirm recurrences already detected by ultrasonography, however the improved resolution of EDI-OCT allowed a more precise measurements of these lesions. In addition, EDI-OCT pointed out other small marginal nodules deemed undetectable by ultrasonography. Conclusions: EDI-OCT is particularly useful in identifying small posterior tumors as its axial resolution is approximately 3 to 4 mm compared with 10 mm for time-domain OCT and approximately 50 to 200 mm for ultrasonography, as reported in literature. Furthermore, in our study EDI-OCT documented its ability to located small recurrences before ultrasonography detection. In selected cases EDI-OCT proved to be a valid non invasive tool for monitoring uveal melanoma treated with brachytherapy. Commercial Relationships: Monica M. Pagliara, None; Maria Grazie Sammarco, None; Francesca Leonardi, None; Andrea Scupola, None; Caputo G. Carmela, None; Aldo Caporossi, None; Maria Antonietta Blasi, None Program Number: 5089 Poster Board Number: A0034 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM A Biological Tissue Adhesive and Dissolvent System for Intraocular Tumor Plaque Radiotherapy Ido Didi Fabian, Vicktoria Vishnevskia-Dai, Michael Belkin, Ofira Zloto. The Goldschleger Eye Institute, The Sheba Medical Center and The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Ramat Gan, Israel. Purpose: To examine the feasibility of a novel technique for plaque radiotherapy placement and removal, using fibrin glue and urokinase, respectively, to explore quantitative variables, and compare these to conventional suturing. Methods: The feasibility of the surgical technique was tested in 6 enucleated porcine eyes. Plaques without radioactive seeds were placed on the sclera beneath the conjunctiva, fibrin glue was then applied on the plaque, covering it and its immediate environment (Figure 1A). The eyes were then submerged in plasma for 3 days. Thereafter, attempts were made to dissolve the glue and release the plaque using urokinase (10,000 units/10cc normal saline (NS)) or NS only, by a surgeon masked as to the nature of the dissolving fluid (Figure 1B). In a second group of eyes, adhesion strength was measured using a system constructed of a tension transducer, a pulley, a transmission wire and an electrical winch (Figure 2). The eyes were prepared as described above, after which they were submerged in plasma for 5 days (replaced every 36 hours). Measurements were performed subsequently on 5 glued eyes and 5 eyes in which the plaques were sutured, and the results were recorded and analyzed. Results: One to 2 ml of fibrin glue was used in order to fix each plaque in place. In all cases the urokinase syringe was identified, as the NS had no effect on the plaque–glue–eye complex, whereas the urokinase dissolved the adhesion between the glue layer and surrounding tissues. The plaques were then delivered out easily, after which a glue “blanket” was removed in full. No tissue defects were observed thereafter. The volume of urokinase used per eye was 0.38±0.08 ml. In the second part, the weights needed to detach the plaques were 0.35±0.17 kg and 0.41±0.08 kg for the glue and sutures, respectively (P=0.59). Conclusions: A novel biological adhesive and dissolvent system using fibrin glue and urokinase was found to be a feasible technique for plaque surgery in an ex-vivo animal model. Fibrin glue was as durable as sutures, but may be preferable to the use of sutures in enabling precise plaque positioning and in the lack of complications, such as globe perforation or plaque displacement. Further in-vivo experiments are warranted. A - application of fibrin glue. The blue color is due to food coloring (for visualization purposes) B - application of urokinase ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology developed SNEC, 8 after I-125 plaque and 1 after SRT (p=0.3). Thicker tumors (>6.5mm) were more likely to develop SNEC (n=7) than thinner tumors (p=0.05). In the studied group, the cumulative probability of developing radiation induced SNEC was 6.2% at 6 months, 7.4% at 12 months, 10.1% at 18 months, and 14.3% at 24 months remaining stable after that (14.3% at 42 months). Meanwhile the cumulative probability of developing radiation induced SNEC among thicker tumors was 23.5% at 45 months. Five patients were treated by implantation of a scleral patch graft, 3 (with limited SNEC) were managed by observation (33.3%), and 1 was enucleated. The mean follow-up time among patients who did not develop SNEC was 22.1 months (±14.0). The overall cumulative probability of survival in this group was 77.3%. Conclusions: In our series, tsFNAB appeared to have a role in the development of radiation induced SNEC in patients evaluated treated by focal radiation. Patients with thicker tumors seem to be more likely to develop SNEC after focal radiation treatment for posterior uveal melanoma. Observation has been our choice for limited SNEC, but scleral patch graft is an alternative for eye preservation in cases of extensive SNEC. adhesion strength measuring system Commercial Relationships: Ido Didi Fabian, None; Vicktoria Vishnevskia-Dai, None; Michael Belkin, None; Ofira Zloto, None Program Number: 5090 Poster Board Number: A0035 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Scleral necrosis in patients with posterior uveal melanomas evaluated by transcleral FNAB and treated by focal radiation: incidence and management Zelia M. Correa1, James J. Augsburger2. 1Ophthalmology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH; 2Ophthalmology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH. Purpose: Evaluate the incidence and management of scleral necrosis (SNEC) in posterior uveal melanomas treated by radiation (I-125 plaque or Stereotactic Radiation Therapy [SRT]) and evaluated by transcleral fine needle aspiration biopsy (tsFNAB) prior to treatment. Methods: We reviewed all of our posterior melanomas treated by focal radiation from July 2006 to July 2013 and selected those evaluated by tsFNAB prior to focal radiation treatment. Statistical analysis included computation of conventional descriptive statistics; cross-tabulation and Chi-square test of factors possibly related to the development of SNEC and summarization of management approaches and results. Incidence of SNEC was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Results: A total of 435 patients with posterior uveal melanoma were treated during the 7-year study interval. Eighty-eight of them were evaluated by tsFNAB and subsequent focal radiation treatment. Fifty-one percent of patients were females and median patient age was 62.3 years (± 13.9). Median largest basal diameter was 13.3 mm (±2.7) and tumor thickness was 6.8 mm (±2.4). Nine patients (10.2%) Commercial Relationships: Zelia M. Correa, None; James J. Augsburger, None Support: This work was supported in part by an unrestricted grant from Research to Prevent Blindness to James J. Augsburger, MD, Chairman, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. Program Number: 5091 Poster Board Number: A0036 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Gene Expression Profiling and Regression Rate of Irradiated Uveal Melanomas Rajesh C. Rao1, 2, Shahed N. Badiyan3, J William Harbour4. 1 Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, W.K. Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI; 2Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI; 3Radiation Oncology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO; 4Ocular Oncology Service, Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL. Purpose: To determine whether gene expression profiling (GEP) is associated with rate of tumor regression following I-125 plaque brachytherapy for posterior uveal melanoma. Methods: Retrospective review of of 83 patients with posterior uveal melanoma treated with I-125 plaque brachytherapy in which GEP class and 3-month post-radiation ultrasonographic tumor thickness were available. Recorded data included baseline patient and tumor characteristics and tumor thickness at 3-months after treatment. Statistical analysis was performed using T-test and Fischer’s exact test. Results: GEP class assignment was class 1 in 83 (60.1%) and class 2 in 55 (39.9%) of patients. Mean patient age was 60.9 years for class 1 and 68.1 years for class 2 tumors (P=0.002). Mean initial tumor diameter was 13.0 mm for class 1 and 14.1 mm for class 2 tumors (P=0.02). Mean initial tumor thickness was 5.3 mm for class ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology 1 and 6.1 mm for class 2 tumors (P=0.09). Mean reduction in tumor thickness at 3-month post-radiation 26.5% for class 1 and 13.0% for class 2 tumors (P=0.01). Complete tumor regression with flat residual tumor was observed for four class 1 tumors and no class 2 tumors. Conclusions: Class 1 tumors exhibit more rapid early tumor regression than class 2 tumors following I-125 plaque radiotherapy. This observation may reflect molecular and/or immunologic differences between the two tumor classes. Commercial Relationships: Rajesh C. Rao, None; Shahed N. Badiyan, None; J William Harbour, Castle Biosciences (C), Castle Biosciences (I), Castle Biosciences (P) Support: J.W.H. - National Cancer Institute (R01CA125970), Melanoma Research Foundation, Melanoma Research Alliance and the Tumori Foundation, R.C.R. and S.N.B. - None Program Number: 5092 Poster Board Number: A0037 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Evaluation of Cytokines and Chemokines in the Vitreous Fluid of Eyes With Radiation Maculopathy Following Plaque Radiotherapy for Uveal Melanoma Hakan Demirci1, Ryan J. Fante1, Thomas W. Gardner1, Jeffrey Sundstrom2. 1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, W.K. Kellogg Eye Center, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI; 2 Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Penn State University, Hershey, PA. Purpose: To evaluate the role Inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in eyes with radiation maculopathy following plaque radiotherapy for uveal melanoma. Methods: Vitreous sample were obtained from five patients who developed radiation maculopathy following plaque radiotherapy for uveal melanoma immediately prior intravitreal treatment. Vitreous from five patients undergoing pars plana vitrectomy for macular hole were used as controls. Cytokines were analyzed using a 42 plexcytokine bead array. Results: The clinical manifestations of radiation maculopathy varied among patients. Two patients had macular edema without nerve fiber layer infarcts or retinal dot-blot hemorrhages, two patients had macular edema, nerve fiber layer infarcts and retinal dot-blot hemorrhages and one patient had nerve fiber layer infarcts and retinal dot-blot hemorrhages without significant macular edema. In all patients with radiation maculopathy, fractalkine, GRO, MDC, PDGF-AA, IL-6, IL-8, IP-10, MCP-1 and VGEF were increased in comparison to the controls. Patients with macular edema but without nerve fiber layer infarcts or retinal dot-blot hemorrhages were noted to have RANTES, MDC, sCD40L, IL-15 and Flt-3L increased in comparison to controls. In the patient with nerve fiber layer infarcts and retinal dot-blot hemorrhages without significant macular edema, IFN-a2, GRO, PDGF-AA, IL-6, IL-8 and MCP-1 were increased in comparison to controls and the other 4 patients. Interestingly, VEGF was highest in the patient who had nerve fiber layer infarcts and retinal dot-blot hemorrhages without significant macular edema, while it was lowest in the patients who had macular edema without nerve fiber layer infarcts or retinal dot-blot hemorrhages. Conclusions: These study shows that it is safe and feasible to study vitreous cytokines and chemokines from vitreous samples obtained in the clinical setting. Cytokines and chemokines expression pattern seems to be different in various manifestations of radiation maculopathy. With sufficient sample size and power, future studies may help to identify biomarkers predictive of treatment response and identify novel treatment targets in radiation maculopathy. Commercial Relationships: Hakan Demirci, None; Ryan J. Fante, None; Thomas W. Gardner, None; Jeffrey Sundstrom, None Support: Ey20582, RPB Physician-Scientist Award and Taubman Medical Research Institute. Program Number: 5093 Poster Board Number: A0038 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Secondary Glaucoma after Cyberknife Radiotherapy for Uveal Melanoma - Preliminary Analysis Simon F. Leicht1, Veronika Reiterer1, Alexander Muacevic2, Paul Foerster1, Anselm Kampik1, Kirsten Eibl-Lindner1. 1Department of Ophthalmology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Munich, Germany; 2 European CyberKnife Center, Munich, Germany. Purpose: Uveal melanoma represents the most common primary intraocular malignancy. For tumor treatment, different modes of radiation are applied such as brachytherapy (ruthenium106 or iodine 125 plaque) or teletherapy with proton therapy or Cyberknife radiotherapy. Cyberknife radiotherapy is administered as a frameless single session outpatient procedure and represents one of the latest available treatment techniques. Data on complications after Cyberknife radiotherapy are unavailable so far and thus we aimed to determine the incidence of secondary glaucoma after treatment, a significant complication regarding life quality and long-term preservation of vision. Methods: We performed a retrospective chart review of 143 consecutive patients with uveal melanoma from our ocular oncology service who had successfully undergone Cyberknife radiotherapy between 2007 und 2013. The follow up period, tumor thickness as determined by standardized ultrasound examination before treatment, incidence of secondary glaucoma and time until onset of secondary glaucoma were determined. Results: 143 patients were included in the study. The follow up period ranged from 2.73 to 85.22 months with a mean of 22.34 months. Tumors had an average thickness of 6.49 mm prior to therapy. Of all patients, 27% (38 of 143 patients) developed secondary glaucoma during the follow up period. The total enucleation rate due to secondary glaucoma was 8% (12 of 143 patients). Otherwise, IOP was controlled effectively by topical and/ or Laser treatment. Secondary glaucoma occured at a mean of 21.8 months after Cyberknife radiotherapy ranging from 2.79 to 64.44 months. Conclusions: Cyberknife radiotherapy allowed for tumor control in all patients included in this retrospective chart review. The incidence of secondary glaucoma was 27% at a mean follow-up time of 21.8 months. Secondary glaucoma is a critical parameter in the long-term assessment for vision preservation in these patients. Commercial Relationships: Simon F. Leicht, None; Veronika Reiterer, None; Alexander Muacevic, None; Paul Foerster, None; Anselm Kampik, None; Kirsten Eibl-Lindner, None Program Number: 5094 Poster Board Number: A0039 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Intravitreal bevicizumab anti-vascular endothelial growth factor therapy for radiation associated neovascular glaucoma Ekaterina A. Semenova, Sonali Nagendran, Paul T. Finger. Ocular Oncology, The New York Eye Cancer Center, New York, NY. Purpose: To describe the effects of intravitreal bevicizumab antivascular endothelial growth factor therapy on radiation associated neovascular glaucoma. Methods: This is a retrospective single centre interventional case series examining 12 eyes of 12 patients with ocular malignancies (10 uveal melanoma, 1 conjunctival melanoma, 1 ciliary body adenocarcinoma) who developed neovascular glaucoma after radiation therapy (11 plaque brachytherapy and 1 external beam teletherapy). All patients were treated with periodic 1.25 mg ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology intravitreal bevicizumab injections. Outcome measures assessed included regression of iris neovascularization, change in intraocular pressure (IOP), visual acuity, pain control and enucleation. Results: Regression of iris neovascularization occurred in 9/12 patients after the first injection. The intraocular pressure (IOP) decreased in 8/12 patients (67%) with a mean reduction of 9.25 mmHg across the study group. Visual acuity improved in 1/12 (8%), remained stable in 5/12 (42%) and deteriorated in 6/12 (50%). Patients were monitored for 24 months on average after the first injection. Six eyes subsequently underwent enucleation for pain control (4 patients, 66%), chronic uveitis (1 patient, 17%) and tumor recurrence (1 patient, 17%). The 6 patients that retained their eyes reported good pain control. Visual acuity ranged from 20/160 to no light perception. Intraocular pressures remained within the normal range in 4 patients, 3 of whom required continued periodic bevicizumab injections. Two patients had significantly raised but stable IOP and opted to stop treatment. Conclusions: Intravitreal bevicizumab is a promising treatment for patients with radiation associated neovascular glaucoma who wish to avoid enucleation. Although visual acuities did not improve, there was clinical evidence of regression of iris neovascularization and treatment achieved pain control and acceptable IOP control in the majority of patients. Commercial Relationships: Ekaterina A. Semenova, None; Sonali Nagendran, None; Paul T. Finger, None Support: The Eye Cancer Foundation Program Number: 5095 Poster Board Number: A0040 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Long-term Experience with Intravitreal Anti-VEGF Therapy for Radiation Retinopathy Kimberly J. Chin, Paul T. Finger, Ekaterina A. Semenova, Sonali Nagendran. New York Eye Cancer Center, New York, NY. Purpose: To present a subgroup long-term analysis of patients with uveal melanoma treated with intravitreal anti-VEGF therapy using escalation strategies for radiation retinopathy (RR). Methods: At a single ophthalmic oncology center, 127 patients underwent intravitreal anti-VEGF injections for RR over 7 years. A subgroup analysis was performed on 29 patients who met the following inclusion criteria: diagnosis of uveal melanoma and subsequent RR; pre-anti-VEGF acuity of 20/200 or better; followup of at least 6 months and at least 4 intravitreal injections; initial and follow-up OCT central foveal thicknesses (CFT) on a single spectral domain device. In that treatment was initiated at the first sign of RR and/or edema of the macula or optic nerve, patients treated for longstanding RR were not included. Our treatment protocol has been refined over 7 years as follows: patients initially received 1.25 mg bevacizumab at 4 week intervals, increasing to 5-8 weeks if improved. If two successive exams demonstrated worsening of RR (by comparative ophthalmoscopy, photography, fluorescein angiography) or increased CFT, patients were first shortened to a 4-week treatment interval, followed by increased dose to 2.0 mg, 2.5 mg, and lastly 3.0 mg. Best corrected visual acuity (ETDRS), fundus photography, and CFT was recorded at each visit; fluorescein angiography at 6 month intervals. Results: Our subgroup analysis of 29 patients revealed a mean age of 65 years with mean follow-up 22 months (range 9-48). By AJCC criteria, there were 19 T1, 7 T2, and 3 T3-sized uveal melanomas. Patients were treated with palladium-103 (n=27) or iodine-125 (n=2) to a mean foveal and optic nerve dose of 56 Gy and 43 Gy, respectively. Mean initial and final acuity (logMar) was 0.1 (20/25); acuity did not significantly change at any interval (p>0.05). There was a general trend towards increased dose: at 1 year 68% (19/28) and at 2 years, 42% (8/19) were still on baseline dose. CFT significantly improved at 3 and 12 months (both p=0.04), but not at the longer follow-up intervals (>2 years). This may be due to the small number of patients at these intervals. Conclusions: Intravitreal anti-VEGF dose escalation strategies may offer patients additional time to forestall vision loss. Long-term stability of visual acuity was achieved despite the progressive, natural course of radiation retinopathy which ultimately leads to subsequent severe vision loss. Commercial Relationships: Kimberly J. Chin, None; Paul T. Finger, The New York Eye Cancer Center (P); Ekaterina A. Semenova, None; Sonali Nagendran, None Program Number: 5096 Poster Board Number: A0041 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Endoresection Surgery for Intra Ocular Choroidal Tumors. Short Term Results Andre A. Vidoris1, Andre Maia1, Rubens Belfort, Jr.1, Marcia Lowen1, Bruno Fernandes2, 1, Rafaello Salas1, Marcio Costa1. 1Ocular Oncology, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil; 2 Mcgill Univesity, Montreal, QC, Canada. Purpose: Internal eyewall resection or endoressection has been proposed as an alternative therapy to irradiation by Peyman et al. and Damato et al. Endoressection is a surgical technique where the tumor is excised by a vitreous cutter during pars plana vitrectomy, which provides direct access to posterior tumors. This study aims to evaluate the endoressection technique in the treatment of choroidal melanoma. Methods: Thirteen patients with choroidal melanoma, diagnosed by indirect ophthalmoscopy, ocular ultrasonography, and fundus photography were selected for this study. None of the patients showed evidence of metastasis on systemic screening. The same surgeon performed all surgical procedures. Patients were evaluated by best-corrected visual acuity (EDTVRS chart), slit lamp microscopy (including the sclerotomy sites), indirect ophthalmoscopy, retinography, and ocular-ultrasonography at the inclusion. Each patient was seen at baseline, d30, d60, d90, and in 3-month intervals afterwards for at least 6 months. The systemic-workup (liver tests, abdominal ultrasonography, chest X-ray) was done every 3 months starting for at least 6 months. The vitreous aspirate from every case was sent to histopathological evaluation. The fluid was centrifuged and fixed in formaline, and embedded in paraffin. A trained ocular pathologist evaluated the Hematoxilin-eosin stained slides by light microscopy. Results: Thirteen patients, including eight (08) woman’s (61,5%%) and one male (38,5%) were included in the study. The age ranged from 42 to 65 years old, the mean age was 50,25. The tumor size by ultrasonography measures ranged from 3.3 to 9.7 millimeters in high, the mean high was 6.03 millimeters. In all cases the pathologist was able to make a histological diagnose. The eye retention rate was 100% in twelve months. In a twelve-month follow up, one patient developed liver metastasis. Conclusions: Endoresection could be a safe and eye-sparring treatment for patients with medium to large choroidal melanoma. Every globe was saved and no recurrences were detected. Moreover, the material obtained during the surgical procedure was able to yield an accurate pathological diagnosis in all patients. Our pilot study confirms the usefulness of this therapeutic modality for local control of the disease. Larger series and longer follow-up periods will determine whether the natural history of the disease is affected. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology detection of metastases, the type and outcome of therapies, the time of last follow-up or death, and the cause of death were included. Data were analysed with a Cox regression model to identify prognostic factors that may influence final outcome. Results: The median age at detection of primary uveal melanoma was 61.5 years (range, 25.3-82.5 years); metastatic disease was detected at median age of 63.6 years (range, 34.3-83.0 years) and median survival from metastasis detection was 18.5 months (range, 1.2-86.4 months). The most frequent first metastatic site was liver (79%). Patients received loco-regional hepatic treatments (12.1%), systemic therapy (39.7%), both (33.3%) or no treatment (14.9%). Liver substitution entity (hazard ratio (HR) 1.3), multiple organ involvement (HR 2.0), increasing levels of serum lactate dehydrogenases(LDH) (HR 1.8) and WHO performance status = 1 (HR 1.6) or 2-3 (HR 4.7) were associated with worse prognosis. Long disease-free interval (HR 0.9) and loco-regional treatment for liver metastases (HR 0.5) conferred a survival advantage (22.6 months) compared to systemic therapies alone (13.4 months) (p=0.038). A nomogram to predict death probability within 6, 12 and 24 months was developed (C-index=0.74). Conclusions: Life prognosis of metastatic uveal melanoma depends on the percentage of liver involvement, spread to multiple organs, serum LDH, performance status, disease-free interval and locoregional treatment. Commercial Relationships: Raffaele Parrozzani, None; Sara Valpione, None; Vanna Chiarion-Sileni, None; Olympia Kotsafti, None; Edoardo Midena, None Commercial Relationships: Andre A. Vidoris, None; Andre Maia, None; Rubens Belfort, Jr., None; Marcia Lowen, None; Bruno Fernandes, None; Rafaello Salas, None; Marcio Costa, None Program Number: 5097 Poster Board Number: A0042 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Metastatic Uveal Melanoma: a Prognostic Model and Nomogram Raffaele Parrozzani1, Sara Valpione2, Vanna Chiarion-Sileni2, Olympia Kotsafti1, Edoardo Midena1, 3. 1GB Bietti Foundation, IRCCS, Roma, Italy; 2Melanoma Unit, Veneto Region Oncology Research Institute (IOV-IRCCS), Padova, Italy; 3Department of Ophthalmology, University of Padova, Padova, Italy. Purpose: The aim of this study was to identify independent prognostic factors to formulate a prognostic nomogram to treat metastatic uveal melanoma patients Methods: Prospectively recorded data of 141 patients with metastatic uveal melanoma, who received different therapy (loco-regional hepatic treatments, systemic therapy, both or no treatment) as firstline approach, were retrospectively analysed. Metastatic disease was confirmed by biopsy or fine needle aspiration cytology. The characteristics of primary uveal melanoma, the site and time of Program Number: 5098 Poster Board Number: A0043 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Clinical Predictors of Survival after Hepatic Arterial Chemoembolization for Stage IV Uveal Melanoma Scott D. Walter1, Tahira Mahten2, J William Harbour1, 3. 1Department of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL; 2Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Saint Loius, MO; 3Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Miami, Miami, FL. Purpose: To determine factors predicting response to hepatic arterial chemoembolization (HACE) in patients with metastatic uveal melanoma. Methods: A retrospective analysis of 37 patients who underwent HACE for metastatic uveal melanoma. Primary outcome measure was months from first HACE to death. Statistical analysis was performed using Cox proportional hazards analysis. Results: Factors associated with poor outcome following HACE included epithelioid cell type (HR 3.34, p=0.02) and ciliary body involvement in the primary tumor (HR 3.04, p=0.01). Factors associated with better outcome included nodular angiographic pattern of liver metastasis (HR 0.22, p<0.001), fewer than 10 liver metastases (HR 0.16, p=0.001), pre-treatment liver enzymes less than twice the upper limit of normal (alkaline phosphatase HR 0.42, p=0.05; alanine aminotransferase HR 0.17, p<0.001), and greater number of HACE treatments (HR 0.36, p<0.001). The use of Gelfoam drug-eluting particles was a significant predictor of longer survival, even after controlling for number of HACE treatments (HR 0.58, p=0.03). Conclusions: HACE for metastatic uveal melanoma is most effective in patients with a nodular angiographic pattern, fewer than 10 liver metastases, and lower pre-treatment liver enzymes. HACE is more effective in treating metastatic uveal melanoma when combined with the use of drug-eluting Gelfoam particles. Commercial Relationships: Scott D. Walter, None; Tahira Mahten, None; J William Harbour, Castle Biosciences (P) ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Support: NIH Center Core Grant P30EY014801, Research to Prevent Blindness Unrestricted Grant, Department of Defense Grant DOD#-W81XWH-09-1-0675 Program Number: 5099 Poster Board Number: A0044 Presentation Time: 3:45 PM–5:30 PM Has survival time of patients following detection of metastatic uveal melanoma really increased in recent years? James J. Augsburger, Zelia M. Correa. Ophthalmology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH. Purpose: During the past decade, numerous treatments that were not available previously have been introduced for management of metastatic uveal melanoma. Many clinicians are convinced (usually on the basis of one or a few anecdotal cases in spite the absence of published reports of any large scale randomized clinical trials) that the various newer treatments prolong patient survival substantially. The authors attempted to determine whether patients with metastatic uveal melanoma encountered in recent years truly have prolonged survival relative to patients encountered during the preceding two decades. Methods: Retrospective analysis of two sequential series of cases of metastatic uveal melanoma encountered in the authors’ private practice. The earlier series (Wills Eye Hospital series, 1980 – 1999) consisted of 320 patients while the more recent series (University of Cincinnati series, 1999-2013) consisted of 81 cases. Results: The clinical characteristics of the patients (age, gender) and their tumors (largest basal diameter, thickness, intraocular location) at baseline were all quite similar. The mean interval between initial treatment of the primary intraocular tumor and detection of metastasis in the earlier series was substantially longer (49.6 months) than that in the more recent series (35.2 months) . At the same time, the mean interval between detection of metastasis and death was shorter in the earlier series (7.7 months) than in the more recent series (9.5 months). However, comparative actuarial survival curves for length of survival following detection of metastasis showed only a slight difference between the curves with a median survival improvement in the more recent series of only about 2 months. Conclusions: While this study revealed a slight improvement in survival time of patients with metastatic uveal melanoma in recent years compared with that observed in earlier years, one cannot tell whether this improvement is due to improved effectiveness of current treatments, detection of metastasis at a less advanced substage due to increased and improved surveillance testing, or other factors. Commercial Relationships: James J. Augsburger, None; Zelia M. Correa, None Support: Research to Prevent Blindness, Inc. (Unrestricted Departmental Grant to Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cincinnati (J. Augsburger, MD, Chairman) 503 Conjunctival and ocular adnexal tumors Thursday, May 08, 2014 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Exhibit/Poster Hall SA Poster Session Program #/Board # Range: 5427–5446/A0001–A0020 Organizing Section: Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 5427 Poster Board Number: A0001 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Childhood Orbital, Ocular and Optic nerve tumors in Egypt Ahmad S. AlFaar1, 2, Mohamed S. Bakry1, Sameera Ezzat1, 3. 1Research Department, Children Cancer Hospital - Egypt 57357, Cairo, Egypt; 2 Ophthalmology, Cairo University School of Medicine, Cairo, Egypt; 3 Public Health, National Liver Institute, Shebin Elkom, Egypt. Purpose: Our aim is to study the incidence of different ocular, orbital and optic nerve tumors in childhood age group (between 0-18 years old) in the largest Egyptian pediatric oncology referral center and correlate the features of each disease and its survival outcomes. Methods: Institutional cancer registry database was reviewed for patients who presented with orbital tumors as a primary site of involvement between July 2007 and November 2013. REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture) system was used for data collection and organization. Integration between clinical information system and RedCap was established for real-time registry updating. Relevant ICD-O-3 topography codes were used to identify the sites. Data were presented in terms of frequencies and percentages. Other demographic properties were presented. Survival was demonstrated using kaplan-meier curves. Results: Among 7277 patients presented with different childhood tumors 425 had the mentioned lesions. Males were affected more than females. Retinoblastoma, Astrocytomas of optic nerve and Rhabdomyosarcoma of orbit were the most frequent tumors. Mean age of retinoblastoma cases was 1.4 years while it was higher in other diseases except germ cell tumors. We’ve presented correlations of our findings with the current Egyptian population-based cancer registry and previous results from Cancer in five continents report. Overall Survival of Retinoblastoma was 95.4% while it was better in Germ cell tumors and less in all other tumor categories. Orbital bones masses were hard to identify due to the broad classification in current ICD-O topography coding. Conclusions: Childhood orbital tumors distribution was similar to international publications except increased incidence of orbital lymphomas. Special attention should be paid to updating the ICD-O classification system to present different skull bones. Commercial Relationships: Ahmad S. AlFaar, None; Mohamed S. Bakry, None; Sameera Ezzat, None Program Number: 5428 Poster Board Number: A0002 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Successful management of ocular juvenile xanthogranuloma using off-label bevacizumab: a report of 2 cases Noy Ashkenazy, Christopher M. Henry, Ashkan M. Abbey, Craig A. McKeown, Audina M. Berrocal, Timothy G. Murray. Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, Miami, FL. Purpose: To present off-label bevacizumab as a potential therapeutic modality for ocular JXG refractory to management with local corticosteroid therapy. Methods: Retrospective case series Results: Case 1: A four-year-old male presented with pain and decreased vision in the right eye. Examination revealed a 1-mm hyphema, which initially cleared with topical atropine 1% drops BID. Upon recurrence 1 week later, gonioscopy revealed a yellow mass on the surface of the iris (Figure 1a), and OCT demonstrated hyperreflective mass on the iris surface, abutting the trabecular meshwork (Figure 1b). Topical atropine 1% drops BID and prednisolone acetate 1% QID were used. Nonetheless, 1 month after discontinuing steroid therapy, the patient returned with recurrent, spontaneous hyphema. Growth of the iris lesion with overlying focal hemorrhage was seen (Figure 1c). Intravitreal bevacizumab (1.25mg/0.05cc) was injected via the pars plana with a 30-gauge, 0.5inch needle. There was complete involution of the lesion (Figure 1d), with improved visual acuity. Case 2: A 6-month-old female with a history of multifocal cutaneous lesions presented with recurrent subconjunctival hemorrhages OD. There was a 3-mm elevated inferotemporal episcleral lesion (Figure 2a), with gonioscopy demonstrating involvement of the posterior peripheral cornea, angle, and iris (Figure 2b). Following failed ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology therapy with sub-Tenon’s injection of triamcinolone acetonide (40mg/1cc) and topical prednisolone acetate 1% ophthalmic drops, off-label intracameral bevacizumab (1.25mg/0.05cc) was delivered on a 30-gauge needle. 3 months later, gonioscopy showed flattening of the epibulbar component (Figure 2c) and involution of the intraocular lesion (Figure 2d), with minimal residual scarring and no recurrent hemorrhages over the next 36 months. The patient showed reduced astigmatism and no longer required topical glaucoma drops. Conclusions: There is presently no standard treatment for the ophthalmic manifestations of JXG. The current case series is the first report to demonstrate the efficacy of off-label intraocular bevacizumab for ocular JXG, even in refractory cases. Intraocular bevacizumab offers significant advantages in its lower associated risk of cataract and secondary glaucoma compared to local steroid therapy or radiation. Additionally, it spares the adverse effects of systemic chemotherapeutic agents. Figure 1 (a-d). Figure 2 (a-d). Commercial Relationships: Noy Ashkenazy, None; Christopher M. Henry, None; Ashkan M. Abbey, None; Craig A. McKeown, None; Audina M. Berrocal, None; Timothy G. Murray, None Program Number: 5429 Poster Board Number: A0003 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Giant Orbital Hydrocystoma in Children: Report of Three Cases Mehrdad Malihi1, Roger Turbin1, Neena Mirani2, Paul D. Langer1. 1 The Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ; 2Department of Pathology, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ. Purpose: Hydrocystoma (also known as sudoriferous cyst) is a benign cystic proliferation of a sweat gland found commonly on the eyelid skin of adults; we report three cases of giant orbital hydrocystoma in children, expanding the clinical and pathological spectrum of this entity. Methods: Interventional case series. Results: Case 1: An 8 year-old-boy presented with a 1 year history of painless progressive right proptosis. Computed tomographic and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a well-defined, intraorbital, extraconal cystic lesion in the lateral orbit posterior to the globe causing bony erosion (Fig 1). Pathologic examination following total resection via lateral orbitotomy reveals a cystic lesion with a clear cavity lined by a smooth surface of a double layer of cuboidal cells, consistent with eccrine hydrocystoma. Case 2: A 13-year-old girl who had suffered blunt orbital trauma one year earlier developed a soft, mobile, non-tender subconjunctival mass in the temporal part of the right upper eyelid. MRI revealed a large well-defined cystic lesion in the right anterior orbit, which was later dissected from beneath the conjunctiva. Pathologic examination reveals a cystic cavity with papillary projections lined by two layers of cuboidal epithelial cells, with the innermost cells displaying eosinophilic cytoplasm and apical “snouting” (decapitation), characteristic of an apocrine hydrocystoma (Fig 2). Case 3: A two-month-old infant was noted to have a non-tender subconjunctival orbital growth visible in the medial left palpebral aperture. Surgical excision revealed a cystic lesion with a smooth internal surface. Microscopic evaluation revealed characteristics similar to case 1 and consistent with eccrine hydrocystoma. Conclusions: Periocular hydrocystoma, which typically presents on the eyelid skin in adults, only rarely occur beneath the skin or conjunctiva: only 8 such lesions have previously been reported, 4 of them in the pediatric population. Presumably, the deeper location of these common skin lesions results either from embryonic rests or from traumatic implantation of glandular epithelium. All 4 previously reported pediatric cases were congenital and of apocrine subtype. Two of the cases in our series were of eccrine subtype, and one was traumatic in origin, expanding the clinical and pathological spectrum of this entity. Clinicians should be aware that an orbital cystic lesion in a child may represent a giant hydrocystoma. Commercial Relationships: Mehrdad Malihi, None; Roger Turbin, None; Neena Mirani, None; Paul D. Langer, None ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 5430 Poster Board Number: A0004 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Growth rates of orbital cavernous hemangiomas: A quantitative analysis Liza M. Cohen1, Anupam Jayaram1, Gary Lissner1, Achilles Karagianis2. 1Ophthalmology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL; 2 Radiology, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL. Purpose: Cavernous hemangiomas of the orbit are characterized by their often asymptomatic presentation and slow growth over time. Our purpose is to calculate the growth rate of orbital cavernous hemangiomas in order to provide quantitative evidence in counseling patients regarding the natural progression of these lesions. Methods: A retrospective chart review from January 1983 to 2013, searching by radiologic diagnoses consistent with orbital cavernous hemangioma, identified a total of 57 lesions. Of these 57, 20 had at least three interval CT and/or MRI scans of the orbit over a period of at least two years follow-up. Serial imaging studies were reviewed by a single neuroradiologist, and the size of each lesion was determined by calculating volume from three-dimensional measurements. Rates of change in size were computed by constructing best-fit lines for size of the lesion versus time. Results: The 20 patients included 13 (65%) females and 7 (35%) males, with average age at presentation of 56.7 ± 14.9 years. The average length of follow-up was 5.7 ± 3.3 years. The average number of serial imaging scans was 5.9 ± 3.8. Of the 20 lesions, 10 (50%) decreased in size and 10 (50%) increased in size over the course of the study. Two lesions that increased in size were resected after 2.5 and 3 years. For the 10 lesions that decreased in size, the average rate of regression was 0.34 ± 0.61 cubic mm/year (range 0.029-2.04), equating to 2.89 years for the lesion to shrink one cubic mm. For the eight lesions not requiring surgery that increased in size, the average rate of growth was 0.25 ± 0.39 cubic mm/year (range 0.029-1.17), equating to 4.00 years for the lesion to grow one cubic mm. In total, for all 18 masses not requiring surgery that both increased and decreased in size, the average of the absolute value of the rate of change in size was 0.30 ± 0.51 cubic mm/year, equating to an average 3.30 years for the lesion to either grow or shrink one cubic mm. Of note, one lesion requiring surgery at a size of 22.5 cubic mm grew at a rate of 3.69 cubic mm/year over three years. Conclusions: Orbital cavernous hemangiomas, when followed with serial imaging over an extended period of time, tend to primarily either increase or decrease in size at a steady slow rate. Quantifying this rate of growth/regression can aid in confirming a diagnosis of cavernous hemangioma and in reassuring patients as to the slowly changing nature of these lesions. Commercial Relationships: Liza M. Cohen, None; Anupam Jayaram, None; Gary Lissner, None; Achilles Karagianis, None Program Number: 5431 Poster Board Number: A0005 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Clinicopathologic Correlation of Caruncular Lesions Sander R. Dubovy1, 2, Antonio J. Bermudez1, 2, Jordan Thompson1, 2 1 . Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, Miami, FL; 2 FLorida Lions Ocular Pathology Laboratory, Miami, FL. Purpose: Lesions of the caruncle are relatively uncommon. Herein we report the caruncular lesions seen at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute by characterizing the type of lesion, relative frequency and clinical findings from a single institution. Methods: The case files of the Florida Lions Ocular Pathology Laboratory at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute were reviewed from 1997 to October 2013 searching for lesions that were designated to have been biopsied from the caruncle. The reports were reviewed and the histopathologic findings were correlated to the clinical findings. Results: A total of 198 lesions of the caruncle were found in the files from January 1997 to October 2013. Thirty different diagnostic entities were identified. The most common were nevi (n=61, 31%), followed by non-specific inflammation (n=26,13%), papilloma (n=16, 8%), sebaceous hyperplasia (n=13, 6.6%), oncocytoma (n=10, 5%) and sebaceous carcinoma (n=8, 4%). Conclusions: This case series demonstrates that benign nevi are the most common lesions identified in the caruncle. While more commonly benign, malignant lesions of the caruncle account for up to 14% of caruncular lesions including sebaceous carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, lymphoma, melanoma and intraepithelial carcinoma. A wide variety of lesions may present in the caruncle and the clinician should be aware of the differential diagnosis in this anatomic location. Commercial Relationships: Sander R. Dubovy, None; Antonio J. Bermudez, None; Jordan Thompson, None Support: Florida Lions Eye Bank Program Number: 5432 Poster Board Number: A0006 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Immunohistochemical Analysis of Sebaceous Cell Carcinoma in Comparison to Both Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma Andre N. Ali-Ridha1, 2, Seymour Brownstein1, 2, Kailun Jiang1, 2, Tatyana Milman3, Bruce Burns2, Paula Blanco2, James Farmer2. 1 Department of Ophthalmology, University of Ottawa, The Ottawa Hospital, The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada; 2Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Ottawa, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, ON, Canada; 3 Departments of Ophthalmology and Pathology, New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, New York, NY. Purpose: Basal cell carcinoma is the most common malignancy of the eyelid followed by sebaceous cell and squamous cell carcinoma. The mortality rate of sebaceous cell carcinoma has been reported as 9 to 30% and both it and squamous cell carcinoma can develop metastatic disease. Clinically, sebaceous cell carcinoma frequently mimics inflammatory conditions and other neoplasms of the eyelid, including both squamous cell and basal cell carcinoma. Our study compares the immunostaining profile of sebaceous cell carcinoma to that of basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma. Methods: Retrospective and prospective case series. Eight specimens each of sebaceous cell, basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma of the eyelid were obtained from the Ottawa Ocular Pathology Laboratory from 2007 to 2013. We compared the immunohistochemical profile of these specimens by staining each of them with EMA, BER-EP4, adipophilin, androgen receptor (AR), P16, BCL-2, CK7, Ki67, BRST1, BRST2, p53, and CK20. We compared the extent of staining to that of normal surface and glandular epithelial tissue on each slide as normal internal controls. The immunoreactivity data was then analyzed using a 2-tailed Kruskal-Wallis test (p<0.05 is significant) with a post-hoc analysis using Mann-Whitney tests. Results: Our test results were statistically significant (p<0.05) for positive staining of EMA, adipophilin, P16 and AR in sebaceous cell carcinoma. This group also showed a higher percentage of positivity for Ki67. The basal cell tumours exhibited positive staining for CK7, BCL2, and BER-EP4, while squamous cell carcinoma showed substantial positivity only for EMA. Adipophilin stained positive in sebaceous cell carcinoma with intracytoplasmic lipid vesicles in 94% of the cells in our series as compared to the nonspecific or minimal staining of granules in basal and squamous carcinoma cells respectively. Conclusions: Our study helps clarify much of the controversy in the literature concerning immunostains which overlap in reactivity for ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology sebaceous cell carcinoma. We have found that the most informative panel of immunostains, from our original 12 stains, for differentiating sebaceous cell carcinoma from other related tumors consists of P16, adipophilin, EMA, AR, CK7 and Ki67. This diagnostically optimal panel of immunostains may allow for earlier diagnosis and treatment of sebaceous cell carcinoma of the eyelid. Commercial Relationships: Andre N. Ali-Ridha, None; Seymour Brownstein, None; Kailun Jiang, None; Tatyana Milman, None; Bruce Burns, None; Paula Blanco, None; James Farmer, None Program Number: 5433 Poster Board Number: A0007 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Sebaceous gland carcinoma of the ocular adnexa – variability in histological and immunhistochemical appearance Eva J. Becker1, 2, Martina C. Herwig1, 2, Frank G. Holz1, Hans-Peter Fischer3, Karin U. Loeffler1, 2. 1Ophthalmology, University Eye Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany; 2Ophthalmic Pathology, University Eye Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany; 3Pathology, University Bonn, Bonn, Germany. Purpose: To evaluate the characteristics of sebaceous gland carcinoma (SGC) of the ocular adnexae which is - due to a high variability in clinical, histological and immunhistochemical characteristics – challenging to diagnose. Methods: Records of 6 patients (1 female, 5 male) with SGC were reviewed, who underwent surgical excision and who were histologically diagnosed SGCs. For comparison, specimens from 4 patients with basal cell carcinoma (BCC), 1 with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and 2 with indeterminate lesions were examined. Histological and immunhistochemical analysis included stains for HE and PAS, cytokeratins (CKpan, Cam5.2), epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), androgen receptor (AR441), and adipophilin. Results: SGCs were located in the upper (n=2) or lower (n=4) eyelid and were associated with various clinical signs including chalazion-like lesions with pyogenic granuloma (n=1), papillomatous conjunctival tumors (n=3), a hyperkeratotic exophytic neoplasm (n=1) and an ulcerating crusted lesion resembling chronic blepharitis (n=1). The treatment was tumor resection, followed (if necessary) by adjuvant therapy with topical Mitomycin C (n=2). Histologic characteristics included basophilic pleomorphic cells with vacuolated cytoplasm, prominent nucleoli, mitotic figures and in some cases pagetoid spread (n=2). CKpan, EMA and Cam5.2 showed a strong positive immunoreactivity in all specimens (SGC, BCC, SCC). AR441 positivity was noted with variable intensities in almost all lesions and in particular in pagetoid spread in contrast to non-tumor cells. Adipophilin showed an annular staining of lipid granules in immature sebaceous cells and was mainly found in SGC. Conclusions: SGCs display a variety of clinical signs and may mimic many other lesions. Tumor resection, followed by histological and immunhistochemical analysis, leads to the diagnosis and initiation of the proper treatment regimen. Herein, immunohistochemistry showed an unequivocal profile in SGC and did not allow for an exact differentiation from BCC and SCC by immunohistochemical means only. An extended evaluation of HE stains remains essential. However, immunohistochemistry can make relevant contributions to the diagnosis of SGC, especially in cases of inconclusive histology, by positive staining for adipophilin in immature sebaceous cells or by AR441 labeling in cases of pagetoid spread. Commercial Relationships: Eva J. Becker, None; Martina C. Herwig, None; Frank G. Holz, None; Hans-Peter Fischer, None; Karin U. Loeffler, None Program Number: 5434 Poster Board Number: A0008 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Molecular Profiling of Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia Identifies Multiple DNA Copy Number Alterations Including Recurring 8p11.22 Amplicons Saeed AlWadani1, 3, Laura Asnaghi1, Hind Alkatan2, Hilal Al -Hussain2, Deepak Edward1, 2, Charles Eberhart1. 1Ophthalmic Pathology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD; 2King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; 3Ophthalmology, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Purpose: To uncover novel diagnostic biomarkers and molecular pathways, which can be targeted using new therapies in Conjunctival squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC). Very little is known about the molecular pathways, which drive the formation and growth of ocular surface squamous neoplasia. Methods: We analyzed DNA extracted from 14 snap frozen cSCC tumor specimens using Agilent 180K high density oligonucleotide array-based Comparative Genomic Hybridization (aCGH), with 12 samples giving high quality hybridizations. 11 cases with DNA remaining were used to confirm chromosomal alterations by nanostring analysis. Results: Of these 12 tumors, the number of clear regions of DNA loss ranged from 1 to 24 per tumor, while gains ranged from 2 to 14 per tumor. Two of the 12 tumors were recurrent, and these had the highest number of copy number gains/amplifications 9 and 14, and 8 and 11 losses among the cohort. These recurring aberrations were observed in chromosome 6, where the region 6p22.1-p21.32 was lost in 33%, in chromosome 14, where the locus 14q13.2 was lost in 42%, and in chromosome 22, where 5 samples showed DNA loss and one DNA gain at 22q11.22. However, the most frequent alteration was observed in chromosome 8, where the locus 8p11.22 was amplified in 75% and lost in 25%. This region contains a group of genes coding for “a disintegrin and metalloprotease” (ADAM) proteins, known to be involved in the activation of oncogenic receptors and tumor formation. We observed the most profound DNA alterations in the region of 8p11.22 which contains part or all of the ADAM1B, 3A, and 5p genes. We are now investigating mRNA expression at the 8p11.22 loci with PCR. Conclusions: Recurrent cSCC tumors were found to have significant chromosomal alteration in region 8p11.22, suggesting that increased numbers of DNA alterations may be associated with more aggressive clinical behavior and/or tumor progression. In contrast, case with fewer gains and losses was somewhat distinct microscopically, and noted to be relatively undifferentiated with adnexal features. The ADAM genes discovered in this study could be related to ocular tumors and previously reported ADAM9 alterations associated with oral mucosa neoplasia, suggest that ADAM family members may be involved in the pathogenesis of several types of mucosal squamous neoplasia, and could be potential therapeutic target. Commercial Relationships: Saeed AlWadani, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital (F); Laura Asnaghi, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital (F); Hind Alkatan, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital (F); Hilal Al -Hussain, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital (F); Deepak Edward, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital (F); Charles Eberhart, King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital (F) Support: King Khaled Eye Specialist Hospital Grant, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 5435 Poster Board Number: A0009 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Establishment and characterization of squamous cell carcinoma cells from the human bulbar conjunctiva Bettina Mueller, Henning Thomasen, Klaus-Peter Steuhl, Daniel Meller. University Duisburg Essen, Essen, Germany. Purpose: Until now only limited information about cultivated tumor initiating cells out of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) from the human bulbar conjunctiva are available. Therefore, the establishment of a model cell line would be a useful tool for further studies. In particular, the phenotypic and molecular characterization in comparison to other SCC cells is of high interest. This would enable the development of new treatment options for clinical application. Methods: Epithelial cells were isolated from a bulbar conjunctival SCC obtained from a 74 year old male and were named PeCaUkHb-01. For receiving a pure cell culture, epithelial cells were harvested by stepwise trypsinisation. Furthermore, mycoplasma contamination was tested. Cell doubling time and number of passages were determined. STR (short tandem repeats) and karyotype analyses were performed to verify the origin of the cells and to analyze chromosomal heterogeneity. For further characterization semiquantitative real-time PCR and immunofluorescence staining were carried out to detect tumor and epithelial progenitor cell markers. Spheroid and colony forming ability were performed. Results: The morphology of the new cell line resembled other epithelial SCC cell lines, furthermore STR experiments confirmed the origin of the cells from the donor. The cells were free of mycoplasma. They grew above passage number forty and could be frozen and recultured. Karyotype analyses revealed a heterogeneous composition of the cell culture and the karyogram itself showed aberrations and changes in the chromosome numbers. PeCa-UkHb-01 cells were able to build colonies and spheroids. Semiquantitative real-time PCR results displayed an upregulation of SOX2 in comparison with A-431 SCC cells. Furthermore the cells showed expression of the putitative ocular surface stem cell markers ABCG2, c Myc, Lin28, Oct4, P63, which indicates stem-cell like characteristics. Conclusions: PeCa-UkHb-01 cells fulfill the criteria of a cell line which might display characteristics of cancer stem cells. They showed similarities to established cell lines from SCCs and other tumors. Further characterizations are needed to confirm the hint of stem cell characteristics. This cell line will be a huge advantage for further basic research and development of therapeutic applications due to the fact that it is the first of its kind. Commercial Relationships: Bettina Mueller, None; Henning Thomasen, None; Klaus-Peter Steuhl, None; Daniel Meller, None Program Number: 5436 Poster Board Number: A0010 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Intraoperative High Dose Rate 32P Brachytherapy for Diffuse Conjunctival Neoplasms Brian Marr1, David H. Abramson1, Gil’ad Cohen3, Christopher Barker2. 1Surgery, Memorial Sloan Kettering, New York, NY; 2 radiation oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering, New York, NY; 3 medical physics, Memorial Sloan Kettering, New York, NY. Purpose: : Malignancies occurring near the eye are often effectively managed with radiation therapy. However, the sensitivity and small size of the eye often limit options with teletherapy. For this reason, we have employed a novel brachytherapy system for ophthalmic malignancies in recent years. This study was conducted to assess the outcome of treatment with this modality. Methods: : With permission of the IRB, medical records of patients treated with 32P brachytherapy for ophthalmic malignancies were reviewed. Demographic, comorbidity, cancer and treatment related factors were recorded. Visual acuity, intraocular pressure, grade >2 adverse events (defined and graded per CTCAE) and tumor control were noted. Results: : 5 patients (2 women, 3 men) underwent 6 courses of 32P ophthalmic brachytherapy. Median age was 63 (range 51-80). Median ACE-27 comorbidity score was 1 (range 1-2). Four of 5 patients (80%) had recurrent cancer, which had failed a median of 1 prior therapy (range 1-3), including surgical excision, and topical chemotherapy and immunotherapy. No patients had evidence of regional or distant metastases at presentation for brachytherapy. Doses were prescribed to 1 mm from the surface of the applicator, and ranged from 5-17 Gy (median 15 Gy), at dose rates of 0.3250.770 Gy/minute (median 0.450), from 32P sources with activities of 1.35-6.00 mCi (median 5.60), using custom designed applicators 1.0-6.7 cm2 (median 4.5). With a median follow-up of 17 months, 2 patients developed clinical evidence of local recurrence 11 and 4 months after brachytherapy; biopsy confirmed recurrence in only one patient. One patient required enucleation for extensive local tumor recurrence. No patient developed regional or distant recurrence, or has died since brachytherapy. One grade 4 corneal ulcer occurred 1 month after brachytherapy, and one grade 3 cataract occurred 30 months after brachytherapy. Visual acuity >20/200 was preserved in 4 of 5 patients. Glaucoma was not noted in any Conclusions: : Intraoperative high dose rate 32P brachytherapy is feasible for ophthalmic malignancies. We have not noted major complications with doses of ≤15 Gy. Further study with a larger group of patients will be necessary to validate these preliminary findings. Commercial Relationships: Brian Marr, None; David H. Abramson, None; Gil’ad Cohen, None; Christopher Barker, None Program Number: 5437 Poster Board Number: A0011 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM A heterotopic model for tumor-associated (lymph)angiogenesis in the murine cornea - feasibility of intrastromal tumor cell injections Konrad R. Koch, Nasrin Refaian, Deniz Hos, Mario Matthaei, Felix Bock, Simona L. Schlereth, Martina Becker, Claus Cursiefen, Ludwig M. Heindl. Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany. Purpose: The avascular cornea is predestined to study neovascular responses. First experiences with this model date back to 1972, when Gimbrone et al heterotopically implanted tumor fragments in rabbit corneal pockets. Different assays in rabbit, rat, and mouse corneas have since been published including placement of (anti-)angiogenic growth factor releasing pellets or proangiogenic corneal sutures. Using murine corneas is surgically more intricate but advantageous due to the well-defined genetic background and availability of genetically modified animals. In mice, so far tumor-associated angiogenesis has been studied by inserting pre-grown tumor fragments into corneal pockets. Here we describe an alternative approach, where a suspension of cultured tumor cells is directly injected into the corneal stroma. Methods: One ml of B16F10 melanoma cells suspended in PBS (100.000 cells/ml) and pre-stained with FITC+ CellTracker Green was injected into the paracentral corneal stroma of C57Bl/6 mice (n=10, OD) using a Hamilton 33G microsyringe. After 7 days, eyes were enucleated and fixated either in aceton for wholemount preparation, or in formalin for paraffin-embedded sections. LYVE1+ stained wholemounts were evaluated for the relative corneal area covered by FITC+ tumor cells (RAT, in relation to the entire corneal area) and the smallest distance between the tumor cell cluster and the LYVE1+ ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology lymphatic limbus (DTL). Paraffin-embedded sections were stained for HMB45 or Ki67. The rate of Ki67+ tumor cells was calculated. Results: Macroscopic evaluation in 9 eyes revealed a smooth corneal surface with localized pigmented stromal areas. One mouse was euthanized on post-op day 2 due to corneal perforation/ endophthalmitis. All wholemounts (n=4) showed a paracentral area of FITC+ tumor cells. RAT was 5,05% (±2.27, mean ±SD). DTL was 1.32mm (±0.34). In paraffin-embedded sections (n=5) pigmented HMB45+ tumor cells were observed within the corneal stroma. No tumor cells were found in the adjacent anterior chamber. Thirty-seven percent of intrastromal tumor cells were Ki67+. Conclusions: Intrastromal tumor cell injection into the murine cornea appears feasible, allowing for malignant cell survival and ongoing proliferation. Further studies are needed to assess tumor growth and the potential manifestation of associated (lymph)angiogenesis over a longer time period. Commercial Relationships: Konrad R. Koch, None; Nasrin Refaian, None; Deniz Hos, None; Mario Matthaei, None; Felix Bock, None; Simona L. Schlereth, None; Martina Becker, None; Claus Cursiefen, None; Ludwig M. Heindl, None Program Number: 5438 Poster Board Number: A0012 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM New mouse model for conjunctival melanoma Simona L. Schlereth1, Sandra Iden2, Melina Mescher2, Konrad R. Koch1, Claus Cursiefen1, Ludwig M. Heindl1. 1Department of Ophthalmology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany; 2CECAD Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany. Purpose: Conjunctival melanoma is a rare but potentially aggressive ocular cancer, affecting about 0.8 patients per million with a mortality rate of 7-24% in five years. By now, there are no published mouse models to study this malignancy. In this study we investigate a new mouse model for conjunctival melanoma. Methods: Female 6-8 weeks old black six mice were subconjunctivally injected with different doses of 384-HGF+Cdk4 tumor cells (3 groups - first group: 1x106 cells, second: 5x105, third: 1x105 cells). These tumor cells were isolated from dermal melanoma of HGF-Cdk4 mice. We tested different doses and documented findings by a clinical score (including redness, chemosis and tearing in a grade 0 (not detectable) to 3 (severe) and exophthalmos (yes/ no)). After development of macroscopically detectable conjunctival tumor, mice were sacrificed and immunohistochemical staining was performed in liver, lymph nodes, spleen and bulbus including the conjunctiva for hematoxylin&eosin and different tumor markers (including Ki67, TRP1). Mice were inspected for macroscopically visible tumors on the skin and the lung. Results: Conjunctival melanoma was inducible in all mice receiving 1x106 (group1) or 5x105 HGF+cells (group 2) after only 3 days, by darkly pigmented conjunctival swelling. Experiments had to be stopped at day nine due to unilateral exophthalmos in 83% of the animals. The exophthalmos was induced by complete infiltration of tumor mass into the retroorbital space. Mice that received 1x105 HGF+cells (group 3) did not develop any clinical alterations of the eye in an observation period of 40 days. Immunohistochemistry showed intense Ki67 and TRP1 positivity within the conjunctival melanoma, even higher than in isolated in vitro cells. Ki67 expression was elevated in the draining lymphnode. Conclusions: Injection of HGF+ cutaneous melanoma cells into the conjunctiva imitates a solid tumor growth within the conjunctiva and may be used as a new mouse model for a better understanding and treatment of conjunctival melanoma. Commercial Relationships: Simona L. Schlereth, None; Sandra Iden, None; Melina Mescher, None; Konrad R. Koch, None; Claus Cursiefen, None; Ludwig M. Heindl, None Support: Cologne GEROK program to SLS; DFG grant to CC: Cu 47/6-1 and LMH: HE 6743/2-1, CIO Cologne-Bonn Special Program “Ophthalmic Oncology” to CC and LMH Program Number: 5439 Poster Board Number: A0013 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM A new conjunctival melanoma model of primary and metastatic tumor growth Jinfeng Cao1, Nadine de Waard1, Aat A. Mulder1, Bruce R. Ksander2, Martine Jager1. 1Ophthalmolgy, Leiden University Medical Center, Warmond, Netherlands; 2Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute / Mass Eye & Ear, Harvard,, Boston, MA. Purpose: There is currently no conjunctival melanoma model available, limiting the ability to study the mechanisms of tumor progression which would allow the development of more effective chemotherapy and/or novel therapies, such as immunotherapy. Methods: In order to develop a xenogeneic model of human conjunctival melanoma in mice, cell lines derived from human conjunctival melanoma (CRMM-1, CRMM-2, CM2005.1) were injected orthotopically (4 x 106 cells/5 μl) into the subconjunctival space of immunodeficient NOD.Cg-Prkdcscid Il2rgtm1Wjl/SzJ (NSG) mice. Sequential passage of in vivo grown conjunctival melanomas was achieved by harvesting primary tumors, digestion of tumor tissue, and injection of tumor cells into the subconjunctival space of a new naive NSG mouse. Primary tumor growth was assessed by slit lamp examination, H&E, and immunohistochemical staining of conjunctival melanoma markers. Metastatic tumors derived from the cervical lymph nodes were also analyzed. Results: Xenogeneic human conjunctival melanomas grew progressively within the subconjunctival space of immunodeficient NSG mice. Primary tumors formed within two weeks in all mice (total of 101 mice; CRMM-1 n =33, CRMM-2 n = 34, CM2005.1 n = 35). All three cell lines expressed HMB-45. CRMM-1 and CM2005.1 expressed Melan-A, while S100 was only expressed at high levels in CM2005.1. On the primary tumors, the melanocyte markers..... were expressed. Histological analysis demonstrated all three cell lines had comparable growth and morphological characteristics: tumors grew along the subconjunctival space and sclera, displayed an epithelioid cell morphology with large nuclei, prominent nucleoli, and large cytoplasmic compartments with vacuoles. Surprisingly, initial primary tumors failed to metastasize in any mice, even after tumors attained the size requiring euthanasia. However, serial in vivo passage of primary tumors resulted in consistent metastatic tumor spread to the cervical lymph nodes draining the tumor-containing eye. Conclusions: Preventing metastatic spread of conjunctival melanoma is critical for a positive prognosis. Human xenogeneic conjunctival melanomas growing in immunodeficient NSG mice display tumor growth and metastatic progression that is similar to the human disease, allowing for the analysis of the protective effectiveness of current and novel therapies. Commercial Relationships: Jinfeng Cao, None; Nadine de Waard, None; Aat A. Mulder, None; Bruce R. Ksander, None; Martine Jager, None Support: Chinese Scholarship Council ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 5440 Poster Board Number: A0014 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Role of the Renin-Angiotensin System in Human Conjunctival Lymphoma Erdal Tan Ishizuka, Atsuhiro Kanda, Satoru Kase, Satoshi Kinoshita, Saori Takashina, Yoko Dong, Kousuke Noda, Susumu Ishida. Laboratory of Ocular Cell Biology and Visual Science, Department of Ophthalmology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan. Purpose: The renin-angiotensin system (RAS), a known important controller of systemic blood pressure (circulatory RAS), plays distinct roles in inflammation and pathological vascular conditions in various organs including the eye (tissue RAS). Conjunctival lymphoma is one of the common malignancies found in the ocular adnexa. In this study, we investigated the role of RAS in extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma (EMZL) of the conjunctiva. Methods: Gene expressions of RAS components [prorenin, (pro) renin receptor ((P)RR), angiotensinogen, angiotensin converting enzyme, angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) and AT2R] in EMZL tissues surgically excised from patients were analyzed using reverse transcription PCR. Localization of AT1R and (P)RR in the EMZL tissues were studied by immunofluorescent analyses. Expression levels of pro-angiogenic and inflammatory genes in human B-lymphocyte cell lines treated with angiotensin II (Ang II) were analyzed by real-time PCR. Results: Gene expressions of RAS components were detected in EMZL and several human B-lymphocyte cell lines. (P)RR and AT1R were detected in both vascular endothelial cells and the cytoplasm of atypical lymphoid cells, co-localized with CD31 (endothelial tissue marker) and CD20 (B lymphocyte marker), respectively. Immunofluorescent analyses showed co-localization of prorenin and angiotensinogen in (P)RR-positive and AT1R-positive cells, respectively. Real time-PCR analysis revealed that Ang II significantly upregulated several mRNA expression levels [e.g. basigin and vascular endothelial growth factor A], which were suppressed by pre-treatment of valsartan (AT1R blocker), in human B lymphocyte cell line. Conclusions: Our data using clinical samples together with in vitro results provide evidence that tissue RAS is associated with pathological events in human conjunctival lymphoma. Commercial Relationships: Erdal Tan Ishizuka, None; Atsuhiro Kanda, None; Satoru Kase, None; Satoshi Kinoshita, None; Saori Takashina, None; Yoko Dong, None; Kousuke Noda, None; Susumu Ishida, None Support: Creation of Innovation Centers for Advanced Interdisciplinary Research Areas Program, Takeda Science Foundation, Mishima Saiichi Memorial Ophthalmic Research Japan Foundation, and JSPS KAKENHI-24791823 Program Number: 5441 Poster Board Number: A0015 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Prognosis of lymphomas developed in the ocular adnexa: A single-center study Yoshiko Matsumoto1, Atsushi Azumi2, Azusa Akashi1, Mari Sakamoto1, Takayuki Nagai1, Makoto Nakamura1. 1Devision of Ophthalmology, Kobe University Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe, Japan; 2 Ophthalmology, Kobe Kaisei hospital, Kobe, Japan. Purpose: To demonstrate a prognostic feature of patients suffering from lymphomas in the ocular adnexa. Methods: A single-center retrospective study was conducted. Patients’ information was collected from the medical records of patients that underwent surgical resection of the lesions developed in the ocular adnexa, the conjunctiva, lid and orbit, and were diagnosed with lymphomas by pathological examination from April 1992 to June 2013. In all cases, Southern blot hybridization for immunoglobulin-gene rearrangement was performed to exclude non-lymphoma diseases such as IgG4-related ophthalmic disease. Flow cytometry analysis and G-banding were also done to make precise subtype diagnoses in accordance with WHO classification. For staging classification, systemic examinations were performed to evaluate metastasis. Kaplan-Meier method was used for survival rate analyses. Results: One hundred fifteen cases were diagnosed as lymphomas developed in the ocular adnexa. The median of patient age was 61 (range 10-87). The most frequent subtype was extranodal marginal zone B cell lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue type (MALT lymphoma), seen in 98 cases (85.2%). As for other subtypes of lymphoma, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma was seen in 6 cases (5.2%), follicular lymphoma in 5 (4.3%), and mantle cell lymphoma in 4 (3.5%). Affected sites in the ocular adnexa were orbit; 61 cases (53.0%), conjunctiva; 52 (45.2%), lid; 2 (1.7%). According to AnnArbor staging system, 75 cases (65.2%) were in stage I, 7 (6.1%) in stage II, 2 (1.7%) in stage III, and 15 (13.0%) in stage IV. In most of the cases, the disease was treated by either radiotherapy or chemotherapy, or both, but some cases were just observed after diagnosis. Systemic carcinoma development was observed in 14 cases (12.2%). The 10-year-overall-survival rate of all lymphoma cases was 94.0% and that of MALT lymphoma cases 94.8%. The cause-specific survival rates were 98.6% in all cases and 100% in MALT lymphoma cases. As for 10-year-non-recurrent rates in the cases of stage I or II, the rates were 64.6% in all cases and 67.6% in MALT lymphoma cases. Conclusions: Most common subtype of lymphoma in the ocular adnexa is MALT lymphoma, and the 10-year-cause-specific survival rate was 100%. However, the non-recurrent rate was less than 70% and the development of cancer is not rare. The ocular adnexal lymphomas require long-term systemic follow-up. Commercial Relationships: Yoshiko Matsumoto, None; Atsushi Azumi, None; Azusa Akashi, None; Mari Sakamoto, None; Takayuki Nagai, None; Makoto Nakamura, None Program Number: 5442 Poster Board Number: A0016 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Prognostication in Ocular Adnexal Lymphoma – Feasibility of the Latest Tumour, Tode, Metastasis Staging System Peter Rasmussen2, 1, Sarah E. Coupland3, Paul T. Finger4, Enrique O. Graue4, Hans E. Grossniklaus5, Penny McKelvie7, Kaustubh Mulay6, Jan Ulrik Prause2, Elisabeth Ralfkiaer8, Steffen Heegaard2, 1 1 . Department of Ophthalmology, Glostrup Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Glostrup, Denmark; 2Eye Pathology Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; 3Department of Cellular and Molecular Pathology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom; 4Department of Ocular Oncology, The New York Eye Cancer Center, New York City, NY; 5 Emory Eye Center, Section of Ocular Oncology, Emery University, Atlanta, GA; 6Prasat Eye Institute, Kallam Anji Reddy Campus, Hyderabad, India; 7The Orbital Plastic and Lacrimal Clinic, The Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; 8 Department of Pathology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark. Purpose: To evaluate the prognostic utility of the tumour, node, metastasis (TNM)-based staging system for primary ocular adnexal lymphomas (i.e. lymphomas arising in the orbit, the eyelids, the conjunctiva, the lacrimal gland and the lacrimal sac) proposed by the American Joint Committee on Cancer. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Methods: Retrospective, multicenter study of patients with primary ocular adnexal lymphoma collected from six eye-cancer centers from January 1st 1980 through December 31st 2010. Results: A total of 578 eligible patients were included in the study, 293 (51%) were females. The median age was 61 years (range 3 – 97 years). The most frequent lymphoma subtypes were: extranodal marginal zone lymphoma (397/578, 69%), follicular lymphoma (63/578, 11%), and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (52/578, 9%). The TNM-stages were: T1N0M0/conjunctiva (23%), T2N0M0/ orbit including the lacrimal gland (67%), T3N0M0/eyelid (6%) and T4N0M0/extension beyond the orbit (2%). For the entire study group the 5-year survival was 73%. The group of patients with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma had a significantly poorer survival compared with extranodal marginal zone lymphoma and follicular lymphoma (5-year survival, 31% vs. 79% vs. 81%, respectively) (log-rank p < 0.01). The survival was not associated with the extension or site-specific location of the lesions as depicted by the TNM-based stages in any of the lymphoma subtypes. Conclusions: Lymphoma arising in the ocular adnexal region is mainly prevalent in elderly patients. The survival is primarily determined by histopathology rather tumour size or site-specific location. Commercial Relationships: Peter Rasmussen, None; Sarah E. Coupland, None; Paul T. Finger, None; Enrique O. Graue, None; Hans E. Grossniklaus, None; Penny McKelvie, None; Kaustubh Mulay, None; Jan Ulrik Prause, None; Elisabeth Ralfkiaer, None; Steffen Heegaard, None Support: Fight for Sight Denmark, the Danish Cancer Society, the Danish Eye Research Foundation, Synoptik Foundation, the Danish Foundation for Cancer Research, Engineer Lars Andersens Foundation, the A.P. Møller Foundation for the Advancement of Medical Science and the Merchant Kjaer and Wife Kjaer, born la Cour-Holmens Foundation, and The Eye Cancer Foundation, Inc. Program Number: 5443 Poster Board Number: A0017 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM IgG4 Immunostaining in Patients with Orbital Sarcoidosis: A Pilot Study Kateki Vinod1, Jordan Spindle2, Tatyana Milman1, Roman Shinder2. 1 Ophthalmology, New York Eye and Ear Infirmary, New York, NY; 2 Ophthalmology, SUNY Downstate Medical Center, New York, NY. Purpose: IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is an emerging entity characterized histopathologically by a lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate with increased numbers of IgG4-positive plasma cells (IgG4+ PC). In the last decade, IgG4-RD has been described in multiple organs, including the lung and orbit. Several case reports have appeared in recent pulmonary literature demonstrating evidence of concurrent sarcoidosis and IgG4-RD. The purpose of this study is to determine the strength of association between IgG4-RD and clinically documented and orbital biopsy-confirmed sarcoidosis. Methods: The databases of orbital biopsies performed at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary (NYEEI) and the SUNY Downstate Medical Center between 1990 and 2013 were searched for “sarcoidosis” and/or “granulomatous inflammation” and/or “granuloma.” Patients with orbital biopsies suggestive of sarcoidosis (i.e. non-caseating granulomas), who also had clinical, serologic, and/or radiographic evidence of systemic sarcoidosis, were included. Paraffin-embedded tissue blocks were sectioned and immunostained with IgG4 and IgG antibodies. Histopathology and the degree of IgG4+ PC infiltration were evaluated by 1 ophthalmic pathologist. This study is NYEEI Institutional Review Board approved. Results: Nine patients with orbital biopsies consistent with sarcoidosis and clinical diagnosis of sarcoidosis were identified. Histopathologic findings included discrete non-necrotizing granulomas in 9/9 (100%) patients, mild focal non-storiform fibrosis in 5/9 (56%), moderate focal non-storiform fibrosis in 4/9 (44%), obliterative phlebitis in 1/9 (11%), and mild to moderate lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate in 8/9 (89%). One patient had moderate to severe lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate with elevated IgG4+ PC count >50 per high power field (HPF), IgG4:IgG ratio >90%, elevated total serum IgG and IgG1, 2, and 3 subsets, but normal IgG4. The remaining patients had an average IgG4+ PC count of 5.3 per HPF (range 0-21), and IgG4:IgG ratio of 6.6% (range 0-22%). Conclusions: These results confirm prior data indicating an infrequent association of sarcoidosis with IgG4-RD. These observations are limited by the small sample size, lack of reliable diagnostic criteria for orbital IgG4-RD, and lack of consensus on IgG+ and IgG4+ PC quantification algorithms. Further research is needed to elucidate whether elevated tissue and serum levels of IgG4 in patients with sarcoidosis have clinical significance. Commercial Relationships: Kateki Vinod, None; Jordan Spindle, None; Tatyana Milman, None; Roman Shinder, None Program Number: 5444 Poster Board Number: A0018 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM IgG4-related ophthalmic disease: A clinicopathological study of 40 cases Shunichiro Ueda1, 2, Hiroshi Goto1, Yoshihiko Usui1, Keisuke Kimura1, Kazuhiko Umazume1, Jun Matsubayashi2, Toshitaka Nagao2. 1 Ophthalmology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan; 2Anatomic Pathology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan. Purpose: The aim of this study is to clarify the clinical and histopathological features of IgG4-related ophthalmic disease (IgG4ROD). Methods: We reviewed the medical records of patients with IgG4ROD diagnosed at Tokyo Medical University Hospital between 2002 and 2013. The age and sex of the patients as well as the IgG4 serum levels and the findings of imaging studies, histopathological assessments, flow cytometric studies, and immunoglobulin heavy chain rearrangement assessments were investigated. IgG4-ROD was diagnosed based on (1) the presence of a swelling, enlargement, or mass in any ocular adnexal tissue detected by imaging studies and (2) IgG4 serum levels > 135 mg/dl or (3) >40% of IgG-positive plasma cells being IgG4-positive and >50 cells/field when a biopsy sample was observed using a high-powered microscope. Results: Based on the above criteria, 40 patients were diagnosed with IgG4-ROD, of which 20 (50%) were women. The mean age of the patients was 58.4 years (age range, 27–81 years). Imaging studies showed infiltrative lesions in both (n = 30) or one (n = 3) lacrimal gland, eyelid and extraocular muscles on both sides (n = 2), extraocular muscles on both sides (n = 2), the caruncles on both sides (n = 1), and as a unilateral orbital mass (n = 2). The average IgG4 serum levels were 613 mg/dL (range, 57–1,920 mg/dL). Twenty-seven patients underwent biopsy. Although histological examination revealed lymphoid follicles and mild fibrosis in many cases, strong fibrosis and unclear lymphoid follicles were also observed in a few cases. Immunohistochemically, average 61.5% of the IgG-positive plasma cells were IgG4-positive. No evidence of light chain restriction was observed in the flow cytometric study. Immunoglobulin heavy chain rearrangement was not detected but one patient. Conclusions: The findings of the present study suggest that IgG4ROD occurs in various regions of the ocular adnexa. Commercial Relationships: Shunichiro Ueda, None; Hiroshi Goto, None; Yoshihiko Usui, None; Keisuke Kimura, None; ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Kazuhiko Umazume, None; Jun Matsubayashi, None; Toshitaka Nagao, None Program Number: 5445 Poster Board Number: A0019 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Primary Epithelial Malignancies of the Lacrimal Gland: Trends in Survival Maxwell Elia1, Charles Tuggle2, Javier Servat1, Flora Levin1. 1 Ophthalmology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT; 2Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT. Purpose: To determine the trends in incidence, treatment, and survival of primary epithelial malignancies of the lacrimal gland in the United States from 1988 to 2010 using a systemic review of the National Cancer Institute Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database. Methods: One hundred and thirty-two cases of primary epithelial malignancy of the lacrimal gland were identified in the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program database in the United States from 1988 to 2010. Survival rates were calculated by the Kaplan-Meier method and significance was determined using chi-squared testing. Results: There were 132 cases of primary epithelial lacrimal gland tumors with histopathologic confirmation in the SEER database. The most common tumor types were adenoid cystic carcinoma (51.5%), mucoepidermoid carcinoma (17.4%), adenocarcinoma in situ (15.1% ). The majority of tumors (61%) presented as locally invasive disease. The remainder, were confined to a tumor capsule (35%) or metastatic at presentation (4%). Most tumors were 2-4 cm in size at diagnosis (68%), with 19% less than 2cm and 13% greater than 4cm (13%). Surgery was the treatment of choice in 90% of patients, with 58% receiving radiation therapy (RT). There was a statistically significant improvement in survival among patients undergoing surgery versus those without surgical treatment (8.24 years vs. 1.0 year; p< 0.0001). Those undergoing radiation therapy fared poorer (2.25 years vs. 8.94 years; p = 0.02). Patients with advanced disease were significantly more likely to be treated with radiation therapy alone (70% regionally invasive or metastatic vs. 45% locally invasive; p<0.01). Patients with a history of prior malignancy had worse survival (5.3 years vs. 9.6 year; p = 0.014). There was no significant gender, age, or race predilection. There has been no significant improvement in survival between the 1988-1997 group and the 2004-2010 group (9.6 years vs. 8.36 years, p=0.77). Conclusions: Surgery confers a statistically significant improvement in survival among patients diagnosed with primary epithelial tumors of the lacrimal gland and should remain an important tool in disease management. The SEER data demonstrates that there has been no significant improvement in survival among patients diagnosed with primary epithelial malignancies of the lacrimal gland during the period of data collection. Commercial Relationships: Maxwell Elia, None; Charles Tuggle, None; Javier Servat, None; Flora Levin, None Program Number: 5446 Poster Board Number: A0020 Presentation Time: 8:30 AM–10:15 AM Selective Uptake of Vital Stains in Orbital and Periorbital Tissues Nicole Nikolic1, 2, James Qiao1, Ping Bu1, 2, David K. Yoo1, 2. 1 Ophthalmology, Loyola University Stritch School of Medicine, Chicago, IL; 2Ophthalmology, Hines Veterans Affairs Hospital, Hines, IL. Purpose: Fluorescein-guided resection of tumors is a relatively new modality being used in neurosurgery and urology, with recent literature describing the ability to obtain clearer margins. However, current knowledge on direct staining characteristics in various tissue types is limited at best. Herein, we investigate the staining properties of vital dyes to advance our knowledge for potential use during in vivo resection of tumors. Methods: 4 vital dyes were prepared into aqueous solutions of 2 concentrations: either 1 mg/ml and 0.5 mg/ml concentrations (fluorescein, lissamine green, and rose bengal) or 0.1% and 0.06% (trypan blue.) Sprague-Dawley rats were used to harvest periorbital tissues of interest: muscle, adipose, optic nerve, brain and meninges. Tissue samples were stained with the dyes for 2 minutes then washed with 3 saline baths (3 x 5 mins) to determine the amount of residual staining. Color photographs were taken prior to staining, after staining, and after saline washes. ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Results: Muscle, adipose, nerve and meninges appeared to stain relatively strongly with each dye, with visibly significant retention of stain after saline washing. Brain had variable but often minimal preliminary staining with the dyes; however, it appeared to have little to no retention of stain. All of the vital dyes appeared to stain meninges quite strongly, with little appreciable loss of dye. Of the 4 vital stains, lissamine green was the poorest at both initial and retained staining. Rose bengal appeared to be the most resilient stain of the 4, with minimal dissipation of dye after washing of the tissues. Conclusions: With respect to vital dye utility for in vivo tumor resection, the most promising finding of our investigation is the visible disparity in staining between brain and meningeal tissue, with minimal uptake of the vital dyes in brain tissue. This predilection for staining in meningeal tissue would be of most interest for resection of meningiomas, potentially offering clear delineation between brain and meningioma, allowing for maximal visualization of tumor and ideally greater preservation of healthy brain during surgery. Brain and dura prior to staining with vital dye, after staining, and after saline washes. Above: 0.5 mg/ml fluorescein Below: 0.5 mg/ml lissamine green Brain and dura prior to staining with vital dye, after staining, and after saline washes. Above: 0.5 mg/ml rose bengal Below: 0.06% trypan blue Commercial Relationships: Nicole Nikolic, None; James Qiao, None; Ping Bu, None; David K. Yoo, None Support: Illinois Society for the Prevention of Blindness - AU 514230 534 Ocular Tumors - Management and prognosis Thursday, May 08, 2014 12:00 PM–1:45 PM S 330CD Paper Session Program #/Board # Range: 6017–6023 Organizing Section: Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 6017 Presentation Time: 12:00 PM–12:15 PM (Neonatal) Retinoblastoma in the First Month of Life: Comparison of the Pre- and Post-Intraarterial Chemotherapy Era Talia R. Kaden1, Jasmine H. Francis1, Brian Marr1, Scott E. Brodie3, Y. Pierre Gobin2, David H. Abramson1. 1Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY; 2NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/ Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, NY; 3The Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, NY. Purpose: This project evaluated the clinical features, treatment and outcomes of children diagnosed with retinoblastoma (Rb) before 1 month of age. We assessed how intra-arterial chemotherapy (IAC) impacted outcomes when compared with a similar, pre-IAC cohort in the literature. Methods: This is a retrospective review of patients diagnosed with Rb before 31 days between 2002 and 2013. We recorded patients’ sex, family history, age at diagnosis, manifesting symptom, laterality, stage of ocular disease at diagnosis, number of and location of tumors, electroretinograms pre-and post treatment, development of new ocular or extraocular tumors, treatment, length of follow-up, ocular and patient survival. Each eye was classified at diagnosis by Reese-Ellsworth (RE) and International Classification (ICRB) systems. Results: We identified 22 patients with a median follow-up of 4.3 years. The patients in the pre- and post-IAC era were comparable in mean age at diagnosis, gender distribution, reason for diagnosis, laterality on presentation, location of presenting and recurrent tumors and initial tumor classification. Only 1 patient in our post-IAC cohort received external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) as compared to 21 of 46 patients in the pre-IAC cohort (p<0.05). All eyes were treated with laser therapy and 70% of our patients underwent IAC after receiving bridge intravenous chemotherapy. 30-Hz flicker ERG responses remained stable or improved by 6 months after the first IAC. Most notable were the increased patient and ocular survival in our cohort. 100% of our patients are alive while 17% of the pre-IAC cohort died during follow-up (p<0.05). We retained all but one RE Va/ICRB D eye. In contrast, 10 out of 11 stage V eyes were enucleated in the pre-IAC era (p<0.05). 4 patients developed second nonocular cancers within 5 years of diagnosis in the pre-IAC cohort while we have no extraocular Rb or second tumors in our cohort to date. Conclusions: Our study is consistent with previous literature in terms of demographics, but our data differs substantially from previous reports in ocular survival, patient survival and incidence of nonocular tumors. These results suggest that the use of IAC in patients with very early diagnoses of Rb has meaningful benefits for patients, particularly for those who present initially with extensive intraocular disease. Commercial Relationships: Talia R. Kaden, None; Jasmine H. Francis, None; Brian Marr, None; Scott E. Brodie, None; Y. Pierre Gobin, None; David H. Abramson, None Support: The Fund for Ophthalmic Knowledge, Inc ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 6018 Presentation Time: 12:15 PM–12:30 PM Intravitreal chemotherapy virtually eradicates indication to external beam irradiation for vitreous seeding in retinoblastoma Francis L. Munier1, Marie-Claire Gaillard1, Aubin Balmer1, Susan Houghton1, Maja Beck Popovic2. 1Ophthalmolgy, Jules-Gonin Eye Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland; 2Unité d’hémato-oncologie pédiatrique, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland. Purpose: Vitreous seeding is the worst prognostic factor for eye survival and still represents the most common indication for external beam irradiation and/or enucleation. Here we present the long term follow-up on a published series (Munier et al.Brit J Ophthalmol 2012) treated by intravitreal chemotherapy (IVC) and describe the results of a newly recruited cohort of patients presenting with active vitreous seeding. Methods: Fifty nine consecutive heavily pretreated patients (63 eyes) eligible for IVC were reviewed, including the first series of 23 eyes with globe retention achieved in 20 eyes. The combined 63 eyes received a total 358 IVC (20 to 40 micrograms melphalan) given every 7 to 10 days. Ocular status was monitored under anesthesia with fundus photography, fluorescein angiography, and optic coherence tomography. Additional treatments, including chemohyperthermia, hyperthermia, photocoagulation, periocular topotecan, intra-arterial melphalan, and brachytherapy were applied as necessary to control the retinal tumors. Results: The follow-up of our initial cohort of 23 patients (20 conserved eyes) is marred by the loss of 2 children. One child had undergone enucleation but was disease-free until lost to follow-up in the referral country. The other child showed no ocular recurrence after IVC with survival of 30 months, but was recently diagnosed with uncurable pinealoblastoma. The follow-up for the remaining 19 conserved eyes is extended with mean tumor-free survival of 34.8 months (range 17-49) and no recurrence observed. In the second cohort complete vitreous response is achieved in 37 of the 40 eyes (92.5%, with 3 cases still ongoing), with no evidence of tumor spread and only infraclinical retinal toxicity. Mean follow-up is 12 months (range 1-30). Additional focal treatments were required to achieve complete inactivation of retinal and subretinal tumors in 88% of the eyes. Conclusions: In conclusion, not only can IVC reverse the negative prognostic value of vitreous seeding, but has virtually eradicated the indication to external beam radiotherapy. However it should be emphasized that full tumor control is only rarely achieved by IVC alone without concomitant treatment of the retinal source of the seeding as well as all other active retinal tumors. Commercial Relationships: Francis L. Munier, None; MarieClaire Gaillard, None; Aubin Balmer, None; Susan Houghton, None; Maja Beck Popovic, None Program Number: 6019 Presentation Time: 12:30 PM–12:45 PM A Prospective Single Institution Trial Using Toptecan Based Chemotherapy for the Treatment of Bilateral Intraocular Retinoblastoma: 5 Year Results. Matthew W. Wilson1, 2, Rachel Brennan1, 3, Shenghua Mao4, Ibrahim Qaddoumi3, Carlos Rodriguez-Galindo5. 1Ophthal/Hamilton Eye Int, Univ of Tennessee Health Sci Ctr, Memphis, TN; 2Surgery, St Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Memphis, TN; 3Oncology, St Jude Children’s Reseach Hospital, Memphis, TN; 4Biostatics, St Jude Children’s Reseach Hospital, Memphis, TN; 5Pediatric Oncology, Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA. Purpose: Purpose: To evaluate efficacy of systemic chemo-reduction using topotecan for advanced intraocular retinoblastoma. Methods: Methods: 27 newly diagnosed bilateral retinoblastoma patients (14 males, median age 7.9 months), worse eye ReeseEllsworth (RE) Group IV-V, were treated with 11 cycles of chemotherapy: topotecan and vincristine (TV) x 2 followed by 3 alternating courses of carboplatin and vincristine x 2 and TV x 1. Intensive focal therapy was applied after the first 2 cycles. Event free survival (EFS) was defined as avoidance of external beam radiation (EBRT) and enucleation. Results: Results: Of 54 eyes, 42 were RE IV-V and 36 were International Classification C-E. 25 patients completed all prescribed chemotherapy; one was removed due to persistent viral infection and one had bilateral progressive disease requiring EBRT. 11 eyes were enucleated: 1 at diagnosis, 9 with progressive disease including 3 treated with EBRT, and 1 which developed neovascular glaucoma. At 8 years, cumulative incidence of EBRT was 2.4% (SE±2.4%), EFS for patients was 66.7% (SE± 38.5%), and ocular survival for RE IV-V eyes was 76.2% (SE±26.3). Hematologic toxicities included febrile neutropenia (29 episodes in 275 courses) and 41 episodes of grade 4 thrombocytopenia (1.6 platelet transfusions/patient). Other patient specific toxicities included infection (n=15, 40% viral), grade 3 diarrhea (n=9) and carboplatin reaction (n=1). All patients are alive with median follow up was 4.9 years. Conclusions: Conclusions: Topotecan combined with vincristine and carboplatin and aggressive focal therapies is and effective regimen for treatment of retinoblastoma. Toxicities were anticipated and managed with appropriate supportive care. Commercial Relationships: Matthew W. Wilson, None; Rachel Brennan, None; Shenghua Mao, None; Ibrahim Qaddoumi, None; Carlos Rodriguez-Galindo, None Support: Research to Prevent Blidness, St Jude Children’s Research Hospital Cancer Center Support (CORE) Grant No. CA21765 Clinical Trial: NCT00186888 Program Number: 6020 Presentation Time: 12:45 PM–1:00 PM An Update on the Development of sd-rxRNA for Retinoblastoma Therapy Michael Byrne1, Donglai Qi2, Kevin Stachelek2, Hardeep Singh2, James Cardia1, Lakshmipathi Panderarinathan1, Katherine Holton1, Karen Bulock1, David Cobrinik2, Pamela A. Pavco1. 1Pharmacology, RXi Pharmaceuticals, Westborough, MA; 2Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA. Purpose: Retinoblastoma is a cancer that originates in the retina and primarily affects young children. It is driven by inactivating RB1 mutations as well as by the expression of genes involved in the “normal” signaling circuitry of retinal cells, particularly that of cone precursors. Some of these genes have been found to be critical to retinoblastoma cell growth and survival, suggesting that they may be effective therapeutic targets. We have developed a new class of stable, self-delivering RNAi compounds (sd-rxRNA®) that incorporate features of RNAi and antisense and results in spontaneous cellular uptake. Our goal is to use the sd-rxRNA platform to develop compounds against retinoblastoma therapeutic targets. Initial studies examined in vitro mRNA silencing in retinoblastoma cell lines as well as in vivo uptake by human retinoblastoma cells in a mouse model following treatment with control sd-rxRNA compounds. Here we designed and examined the efficacy of therapeutically relevant sd-rxRNAs specific for retinoblastoma in vitro. Methods: Twenty-five sd-rxRNAs were designed, synthesized and screened in 3-point dose response studies in RB177 cells. Based on targeted mRNA reduction, potential hits were selected and further ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology evaluated in 6-point dose response studies in RB177 and RB176 cells. Results: Multiple sd-rxRNAs resulted in > 50% reduction of the targeted mRNA in studies carried out in RB177 cultured cells. Four potential hits were selected and further evaluated in 6-point dose response studies in RB177 and RB176 cells. Two candidate compounds that demonstrated > 50% mRNA target reduction at < 0.5 uM in both cell lines were selected (a lead and a backup) for in vitro evaluation of tumor cell viability post treatment and in vivo analysis in an orthotopic mouse xenograft model. Conclusions: Therapeutically-relevant, target-specific sd-rxRNAs were identified and evaluated in vitro. Lead candidates were selected based on their ability to reduce the targeted mRNA in human retinoblastoma cell lines in vitro. Our next step is to evaluate if treatment with sd-rxRNAs results in reduced tumor cell viability in vitro and reduced target mRNA levels in human retinoblastoma cells in vivo in an orthotopic mouse xenograft model. These findings, along with our previous report of specific and extended silencing of retinal genes by sd-rxRNA, support the potential use of sd-rxRNA for retinoblastoma therapy. Commercial Relationships: Michael Byrne, RXi Pharmaceuticals (E); Donglai Qi, None; Kevin Stachelek, None; Hardeep Singh, None; James Cardia, RXi Pharmaceuticals (E); Lakshmipathi Panderarinathan, RXi Pharmaceuticals (E); Katherine Holton, RXi Pharmaceuticals (E); Karen Bulock, RXi Pharmaceuticals (E); David Cobrinik, None; Pamela A. Pavco, RXi (E) Support: NIH SBIR Grant number: 1R43CA165899-01A1 Program Number: 6021 Presentation Time: 1:00 PM–1:15 PM The 2014 American Brachytherapy Society (ABS) Guidelines for Plaque Brachytherapy of Uveal Melanoma and Retinoblastoma Paul T. Finger. Ophthalmic Oncology, New York Eye Cancer Center, New York, NY. Purpose: To present the current, updated American Brachytherapy Society (ABS) concenus guidelines for plaque brachytherapy of choroidal melanoma and retinoblastoma to the community of eye care professionals. Methods: An international, multicenter Ophthalmic Oncology Task Force (OOTF) was assembled to include 47 radiation oncologists, medical physicists and ophthalmic oncologists from 13 centers in 10 countries. Thus, the committee included specialists from Europe (Sweden, Finland, United Kingdom, Germany, France), Russia, Japan, India, The United States of America (New York, Tennessee, Georgia, Rhode Island) and Toronto- Ontario-Canada. Thus, the ABS-OOTF produced universally acceptable collaborative guidelines, based on their eye cancer specific clinical experience and knowledge of the literature. Further, these resultant guidelines were staged by levels of consensus. Once completed, this work was reviewed and approved by the 10 person American Brachytherapy Society Board of Directors as well as 4 external reviewers. Results: 1) The ABS-OOTF reached consensus that ophthalmic plaque radiation therapy is best performed in subspecialty brachytherapy centers, experienced with plaque therapy. 2) Quality assurance, methods of plaque construction/dosimetry should be consistent with the 2012 joint guidelines of the American Association of Physicists in Medicine and ABS. 3) Though there exist select restrictions related to tumor-size, location and vision status; the ABS-OOTF agreed that most uveal melanomas (iris, ciliary body and choroid) could be treated with plaque brachytherapy. Specifically, the ABS-OOTF reached consensus that tumors with gross orbital extension, blind painful eyes and those with no light perception vision are unsuitable for brachytherapy. 4) Only select retinoblastomas were considered eligible for plaque brachytherapy. 5) Additional subjects addressed include prescription doses, dose rates, treatment durations and clinical methods. Conclusions: Plaque brachytherapy is an effective, eye and visionsparing method to treat patients with intraocular tumors. Eye cancer specialists (radiation oncologists, medical physicists and ophthalmic oncologists) are encouraged to use both the AAPM-ABS guidelines for plaque dosimetry and quality assurance as well as the ABS-OOTF clinical guidelines to enhance their practice. Commercial Relationships: Paul T. Finger, None Support: The Eye Cancer Foundation, Inc and The American Brachytherapy Society Program Number: 6022 Presentation Time: 1:15 PM–1:30 PM Comparison of Uveal Melanoma Cytopathologic Sample Retrieval in Transscleral Versus Vitrectomy-Assisted Transvitreal Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy Melinda Chang, Ben J. Glasgow, Tara A. McCannel. Ophthalmology, Jules Stein Eye Institute, Los Angeles, CA. Purpose: Fine needle aspiration biopsy has become a standard technique to obtain material from primary uveal melanoma for cytopathology, prognostication and research. The purpose of this investigation was to compare sample retrieval for cytopathology between transscleral and vitrectomy-assisted transvitreal biopsy in the same tumor in patients who underwent iodine-125 brachytherapy in combination with vitrectomy. Methods: All clinical records of patients who underwent iodine-125 brachytherapy for the treatment of uveal melanoma in conjunction with pars plana vitrectomy from whom transscleral and vitrectomyassisted transvitreal fine needle biopsies were obtained, were reviewed. Transscleral and transvitreal biopsies were performed using a 30-gauge and 27-gauge needle, respectively. Baseline patient and tumor characteristics, biopsy sample yield for cytopathology, and surgical outcomes were reviewed. Results: Thirty-eight patients with a mean follow-up time of 4.3 months were included. The mean tumor height was 4.8 mm (range 1.74 to 13.27 mm) and the mean tumor largest basal diameter was 10.7 mm (range 5.47 to 15.9 mm). Overall, 71.1% of transvitreal biopsies and 65.8% of transscleral biopsies yielded sufficient material for cytopathologic analysis (p = 0.62). Greater tumor height and largest basal diameter were significantly associated with increased cytopathologic yield in both transvitreal (p = 0.03 and p = 0.02, respectively) and transscleral biopsies (p= 0.015 and p = 0.007, respectively). Tumor location was not significantly associated with cytopathologic yield for transvitreal (p = 0.26) and transscleral (p = 0.63) biopsies. Fifteen eyes (39.4%) developed transient localized vitreous hemorrhage. No eye developed diffuse or non-clearing vitreous hemorrhage, rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, local treatment failure or metastatic disease during follow-up interval. Conclusions: Both transscleral and vitrectomy-assisted transvitreal fine needle aspiration biopsy resulted in similar tissue yield for cytopathologic analysis when compared during biopsy of the same uveal melanoma. As molecular prognostication becomes the standard of care for obtaining patient information and directing clinical management, further investigation of biopsy techniques is warranted. Commercial Relationships: Melinda Chang, None; Ben J. Glasgow, None; Tara A. McCannel, None Support: Supported by an unrestricted grant from Research to Prevent Blindness and the George E. and Ruth Moss Trust ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected]. ARVO 2014 Annual Meeting Abstracts by Scientific Section/Group - Anatomy/Pathology Program Number: 6023 Presentation Time: 1:30 PM–1:45 PM Primary Oculo-Cerebral lymphoma (POCL): Efficacy of intravenous high-dose methotrexate (MTX) based polychemotherapy without radiotherapy on intraocular disease control Diem Trang Nguyen1, Nathalie Cassoux2, Sylvain Choquet3, Carole Soussain4, Chloé Le Cossec5, Antonio Omuro6, Phuc Lehoang1, Bahram Bodaghi1, Khe Hoang Xuan6, Valerie Touitou1. 1 Ophthalmology, DHU View Maintain, Pitié Salpêtriere Hospital, Paris, France; 2Ophthalmologic oncology, Insitut Curie, Paris, France; 3Clinical Hematology, Pitie Salpetriere hospital, Paris, France; 4Oncology, Institut René Huguenin, Saint Cloud, France; 5 Biostatistics, medical informatic, Pitie Salpetriere Hospital, Paris, France; 6Neuro-Oncology, Pitie Salpetriere Hospital, Paris, France. Purpose: Chemotherapy with radiotherapy (RT) is the current standard treatment of primary oculo-cerebral lymphoma (POCL) but exposes to a high risk of radiation-induced neurotoxicity, especially in the elderly. We recently reported encouraging results of 2 intravenous (IV) high-dose (HD) MTX based polychemotherapy regimens without RT in a randomized multicenter phase II trial (“CNS trial”) for primary central nervous system lymphoma patients over 60 years old (MPVA: HD-MTX, procarbazine, vincristine, and cytarabine versus HD-MTX-Tmz: MTX, temozolomide). The objective was to evaluate the efficacy of IV MTX-based chemotherapy on intraocular lymphoma (IOL) in POCL without RT. Methods: Patients with pathologically proven POCL randomized in the CNS trial, with baseline and follow-up ocular evaluations available were retrospectively analysed. The primary study endpoints were the ocular response and event-free survival. Secondary outcome measures were: cerebral event-free survival and overall survival (OS) of both treatments. Results: Thirteen patients out of 98 (9 males / 4 females, median age 63 years old) met the inclusion criteria. Six patients were randomized into the MPVA group and 7 into the MTX-Tmz group. Overall ocular complete response rate was 58% (MPVA: 67%, MTX-Tmz: 50% - p=0.99). Disease progressed in 17% of patients (MPVA: 17%, MTX-Tmz: 17%) and remained stable in 25% (MPVA: 17%, MTXTmz: 33%). With a median follow-up of 32 months, ocular relapse after an initial complete response was observed in 42% of patients (MPVA: 75%, MTX-Tmz: 67% - p=0.71). The median ocular eventfree survival was 15 months (0-43) in the MPVA group, and 16.5 months (5-69) in the MTX-Tmz group (p=0.997). The median OS for the entire population was 32 months (6-69) without significant difference between the two groups (p=0.481), neither in the cerebral event-free survival (p=0.572). Systemic toxicities occurred in both groups (p>0.05) but were managable. Neurocognitve functions were well preserved. Conclusions: IV HD MTX based polychemotherapy as first line treatment is active in IOL in the setting of POCL. MPVA and MTXTmz demonstrate similar efficacy. Despite a good response rate, relapses remain frequent and improvement of intra-ocular disease control is needed. Future chemotherapy regimens and treatment strategies have to focus on this issue. Commercial Relationships: Diem Trang Nguyen, None; Nathalie Cassoux, None; Sylvain Choquet, Shering-Plough/Merck (F); Carole Soussain, Shering-Plough/Merck (F); Chloé Le Cossec, None; Antonio Omuro, Shering-Plough/Merck (F); Phuc Lehoang, None; Bahram Bodaghi, None; Khe Hoang Xuan, Shering-Plough/ Merck (F); Valerie Touitou, None Support: Study sponsored by APHP – PHRC AOM 06 175 /P06239, Temozolomide and partial financial support provided by ScheringPlough/ Merck, Aknowledgement to the French LOC network (INCa) Clinical Trial: NCT00503594 ©2014, Copyright by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology, Inc., all rights reserved. Go to iovs.org to access the version of record. For permission to reproduce any abstract, contact the ARVO Office at [email protected].