6-Methoxy-tetrahydro-beta-carboline in the retinae of rabbits and pigs

beta-Carbolines are alkaloids found as normal constituents in many plants and animals. These compounds have many biochemical and pharmacological effects often related to a neuromodulator-like mode of action. We have demonstrated a beta-carboline derivative, 6-methoxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-beta-carboline (6-MeO-THBC) as a normal constituent in the retina. The significance of beta-carbolines in the retina remains to be investigated.