Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 11, 2026

Corneal Sensitivity Testing Procedure for Ophthalmologic and Optometric Patients
Published on: August 2, 2024
Which neurotransmitters modulate corneal sensitivity?
D J O'Leary1, J Nazarian, M Millodot
1Cornea and Contact Lens Research Unit, School of Optometry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, AustraliaLaboratory of Experimental Optometry, UWIST, Cardiff, UK.
Abstract:
Corneal sensitivity was assessed before and after applying atropine (0.5, 0.05, 0.005% w/v), pilocarpine (1.0, 0.1%), eserine (0.1, 0.01%) and potassium chloride (171mM). Atropine (0.5 - 0.005%) significantly depressed corneal sensitivity; parasympathomimetics, taken together, significantly increased sensitivity. Exposure to potassium chloride for 2 min had no effect on sensitivity, nor did it affect corneal sensation. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that epithelial acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter to the corneal nerves. We conclude, however, that the nerves may have only weak muscarinic properties.
Related Concept Videos
G-Protein Gated Ion Channels
Sensory organs,...
Local Anesthetics: Differential Sensitivity of Nerve Fibers
Classification of Neurotransmitters
Neurotransmitters
Neurotransmitters
Excitatory and Inhibitory Effects of Neurotransmitters
