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Monkey central retinal artery is innervated by nitroxidergic vasodilator nerves
1Department of Pharmacology, Shiga University of Medical Science, Ohtsu, Japan.
Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science
|October 1, 1996
Summary
Monkey central retinal arteries have vasodilator nerves that release nitric oxide (NO) to relax blood vessels. This study identifies NO synthase-containing nerves as key players in regulating retinal artery tone.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Ophthalmology
- Vascular Biology
Background:
- The central retinal artery's innervation is not fully understood.
- Investigating neurogenic control of retinal blood flow is crucial for understanding ocular health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if monkey central retinal arteries possess vasodilator nerves.
- To elucidate the mechanism behind the neurogenic relaxation response.
Main Methods:
- Isometric tension recordings in helical arterial strips.
- Electrical stimulation and nicotine exposure to assess neurogenic responses.
- Histological analysis for nitric oxide (NO) synthase immunoreactivity.
Main Results:
- Electrical stimulation and nicotine induced relaxation in denuded arterial strips.
- The relaxation was abolished by NO synthase inhibitors and restored by L-arginine.
- Abundant NO synthase-containing nerve fibers were found in the adventitia.
Conclusions:
- Monkey central retinal arteries are innervated by NO synthase-containing nerves.
- These nerves likely release NO as a neurotransmitter, causing muscular relaxation.
- This finding contributes to understanding the neurovascular regulation of the eye.