Abstract
The anterior chamber of the rabbit eye was perfused with solutions containing fluorescein-labelled dextrans (FDs) of various molecular weights from 3000 to 150,000. Using an adapted Zeiss slit-lamp, specially modified for rapid sequence flash photography, the outflow channels for the aqueous humour in the limbal region could be demonstrated in living, anaesthetized animals. Semi-permanent preparations showing the postmortem distribution of FD in the tissues were made by fixation in a mixture of neutral formaldehyde and 70% ethanol. The fixed material was dehydrated in the normal way and either cleared in bulk in methyl salicylate or embedded in paraffin for sectioning. Cleared whole-mount preparations showed FD precipitated in the angular aqueous plexus and the efferent veins together with some perivascular distribution. Paraffin sections showed that FD had penetrated into the tissues of the iridocorneal angle and the suprachoroidal space. Further experiments were carried out using closed cycle perfusion of the anterior chamber with a mixture of FD (mol. wt. of 3000, 40 000 or 150 000) and blue dextran (mol. wt. = 2000 000). Rate constants calculated for the loss of these substances from the anterior chamber showed that the rates for the FDs were 20–25% greater than the rate for blue dextran. On the basis of these findings it is suggested that an appreciable fraction of aqueous humour in the rabbit eye may leave via a uveoscleral route.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call