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Abstract #12163 Published in IGR 7-2

Finding of endocannabinoids in human eye tissues: implications for glaucoma

Chen J; Matias I; Dinh T; Lu T; Venezia S; Nieves A; Woodward DF; Di-Marzo V
Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications 2005; 330: 1062-1067


Cannabinoid CB(1) receptors are involved in ocular physiology and may regulate intraocular pressure (IOP). However, endocannabinoid levels in human ocular tissues of cornea, iris, ciliary body, retina, and choroid from normal and glaucomatous donors have not been investigated. Anandamide (N-arachidonoylethanolamine; AEA), 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), and the anandamide congener, palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), were detected in all the human tissues examined. In eyes from patients with glaucoma, significantly decreased 2-AG and PEA levels were detected in the ciliary body, an important tissue in the regulation of IOP. The findings suggest that these endogenous compounds may have a role in this disease, particularly with respect to regulation of IOP.

Dr. J. Chen, Department of Biological Sciences, Allergan Inc., Irvine, CA, USA. chen_june@allergan.com


Classification:

11.14 Investigational drugs; pharmacological experiments (Part of: 11 Medical treatment)



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