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Abstract #5632 Published in IGR 2-1
Environmental light enhances survival and axonal regeneration of axotomized retinal ganglion cells in adult cats
Watanabe M; Inukai N; Fukuda YExperimental Neurology 1999; 160:133-141
A segment of peripheral nerve was transplanted to the cut stump of the optic nerve to facilitate axonal regeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in adult cats. The cats were reared under different light environments: 12 hours light-12 hours darkness, additional flash light under conventional light cycle, or 24 hours darkness. After 60 days, the density and morphology of RGCs with regenerated axons were examined with retrograde labelling by fluoro-ruby and intracellular injections of Lucifer Yellow. In the retina of cats reared in darkness, densities of RGCs with regenerated axons were 11-42% of those in the retina of cats reared under a conventional light and dark cycle. More than half the labelled RGCs were degenerative in the retina of cats reared in darkness, while most RGCs were normal under conventional environment or flash light. The authors conclude that environmental light is essential for the survival and axonal regeneration of axotomized RGCs.
Dr. M. Watanabe, Department of Physiology, Institute for Developmental Research, Aichi, Japan
Classification:
5 Experimental glaucoma; animal models
12.20 Other (Part of: 12 Surgical treatment)