advertisement

WGA Rescources

Abstract #81439 Published in IGR 20-3

Immunohistochemical Characterization of Neurotransmitters in the Episcleral Circulation in Rats

Ladek AM; Trost A; Bruckner D; Schroedl F; Kaser-Eichberger A; Lenzhofer M; Reitsamer HA; Strohmaier CA
Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science 2019; 60: 3215-3220


PURPOSE: Episcleral venous pressure (EVP) greatly influences steady-state IOP and recent evidence suggests a neuronal influence on EVP. Yet little is known about the innervation of the episcleral circulation and, more specifically, the neurotransmitters involved. We identify possible neurotransmitter candidates in the episcleral circulation of rats. METHODS: Eight immersion-fixated rat eyes taken from four animals were cut into serial sections, followed by standard immunohistochemistry. Antibodies against choline acetyltransferase, dopamine-β-hydroxylase, synaptophysine, PGP 9.5, VIP, neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), substance P, CGRP, and galanin were used. Additionally, colocalization experiments with smooth muscle actin and neurofilament (200 kDa) were performed. RESULTS: In all specimens, the episcleral vessels showed immunoreactivity for smooth muscle actin and were reached by neurofilament (200 kDa)-positive structures. Furthermore, these structures colocalized with immunoreactivity for PGP 9.5, synaptophysine, choline acetyl transferase (ChAT), dopamine-β-hydroxylase, VIP, CGRP, nNOS, substance P and galanin. CONCLUSIONS: These findings indicate that there is neuronal input to the episcleral circulation. ChAT and VIP as well as dopamine-β-hydroxylase suggest parasympathetic and sympathetic innervation. Further studies are needed on whether the positively-stained structures are of functional significance for the regulation of the episcleral venous pressure and thereby IOP.

Department of Ophthalmology/Optometry, Research Program for Experimental Ophthalmology and Glaucoma Research, Paracelsus Medical University/SALK, Salzburg, Austria.

Full article

Classification:

5.1 Rodent (Part of: 5 Experimental glaucoma; animal models)
9.4.9 Glaucomas associated with elevated episcleral venous pressure (Part of: 9 Clinical forms of glaucomas > 9.4 Glaucomas associated with other ocular and systemic disorders)
3.8 Pharmacology (Part of: 3 Laboratory methods)
3.3 Immunohistochemistry (Part of: 3 Laboratory methods)



Issue 20-3

Change Issue


advertisement

WGA Rescources