AIM: To observe the structure changes of retina and determine the expression of TGF-β₂ in retina model. At the same time to clarify the function of TGF-β₂ in form deprivation myopia model.

METHODS: A facemask was worn on the right eyes of guinea pigs to develop form deprivation myopia. Before and after experiment, refraction was measured using retinoscope, and ocular axial was determined by A-scan ultrasonography. Morphologic alternations of the retina were observed by light microsope. The expression of TGF-β₂ in the retina was determined by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS:Retina of myopic eyes became thinner, and inner nuclear layer of retina had few layers, nuclear of outer nuclear layer became smaller and circular, at the same time, they arranged in disorder. The immunohistochemisty results showed that expression of TGF-β₂ in model eyes was lower than that in control eyes(P<0.05).

CONCLUSION: Covering eyes with facemasks is effective, simple and convenient in making myopic model. The retina of the model eye appeares degeneration. TGF-β₂ plays an important role in the course of development in form deprivation myopia.