Use of non-mammalian models in research the area of ophthalmology

Abstract

With the increase in ecological and socioeconomic importance, the use of different animals in research in the field of ophthalmology has been growing. The purpose of this review is to show the importance of using these non-mammalian animals, such as birds, fish, amphibians and reptiles. Consequently, the elaboration of a database of values of physiological parameters in healthy animals of each species, favoring that in cases of clinical routine of exotic animals, these data can be consulted. Prior to the development of a study, the researcher must pay attention to the choice of the experimental model, especially if the chosen species reaches the objectives and needs of the study. In a general context, there is a need for greater use of non-mammalian animals so that scientific data can assist in diagnoses where there is still no standardization of reference values for wild animals.