Abstract:Objective To investigate the difference of the mechanical properties of sclera in different regions. Methods The sclera of Sus scrofa was divided into three parts: anterior, equatorial, and posterior area. The mechanical properties of the sclera were tested by local indentation and uniaxial stretching. 1. Local indentation was performed on different areas of the whole sclera. 2. Strip specimens of different regions were circumcised along the equatorial direction, and subjected to uniaxial stretching by Instron 5544. Results Within the normal physiological stress range, the stiffness of different areas of sclera measured by local indentation was as follows: 0.91±0.21 MPa (anterior), 0.6±0.16 MPa (equatorial) and 0.39±0.13 MPa (posterior). The elastic modulus of different regions of sclera measured by uniaxial stretching was as follows: 1.28±0.37 MPa ((anterior), 0.95±0.31 MPa (equatorial) and 0.72±0.28 MPa (posterior); Conclusion The local indentation could reflect the regional mechanical properties of sclera. The anterior sclera performed higher stiffness than the equatorial and posterior areas. The results provide a reference for the further study on the pathogenesis of ocular diseases including myopia.