*2.2.3 Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 knockout (Nrf2−/−) mice*

NRF2 is a transcription factor that encodes for detoxifying and antioxidant enzymes such as SOD. *Nrf2*−/− mice developed hard drusen-like deposits at 8–11 months of age and larger soft drusen-like deposits at 11–18 months of age similar to changes in early AMD. At 11–17 months of age, 18% of the mice developed CNV. Other changes include RPE atrophy and hyperpigmentation with increased autofluorescence, thickened BrM and choriocapillaris endothelium, photoreceptor atrophy, and increased levels of complement and vitronectin by 12 months of

*An Overview of Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Clinical, Pre-Clinical Animal Models… DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.96601*

age. This model is a promising model for both non-exudative and exudative AMD because it has characteristics of both conditions [26].
