[Effect of UF-021 on optic nerve head circulation in rabbits]

We studied the effect of UF-021, a prostaglandin-related compound under application as an anti-glaucoma agent, on the circulation of the optic nerve head (ONH) in normal and endothelin-1 treated albino rabbit eyes. Measurement of the capillary blood flow in the ONH with a hydrogen gas clearance flowmeter as well as intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement was done for five hours. Instillation of UF-021 reduced IOP (maximum: 3.7 mmHg) but had no significant effect on the ONH blood flow in normal eyes. Intravitreal injection of UF-021 reduced IOP to less extent (maximum: 1.8 mmHg) and significantly increased the ONH blood flow (maximum increment: 14% of initial value) from 1 hour to 3.5 hours after injection in normal eyes. In model eyes of circulatory disorder, UF-021 did not affect IOP but inhibited the decrease in the ONH blood flow at 2.5 and 3.5 hours after administration. These results indicate that the effect of UF-021 on ONH circulation is favorable because its blood flow is maintained.