Localization of dopamine receptors in the rabbit cornea

Purpose. To analyze the pharmacologic profile and the anatomic localization of the dopamine D-1 and D-2 receptors in sections of the rabbit cornea in normal conditions. Methods. Samples of rabbit cornea were drawn. Biochemica l and autoradiographic techniques were used on frozen sections. [H-3]SCW-23 390 was used as a ligand of dopamine D-1 receptors and [H-3]spiroperidol as a ligand of dopamine D-2 receptors. Results. [H-3]SCH-23390 and [H-3]spiro peridol were bound by sections of the rabbit cornea. The pharmacologic prof ile of the binding was consistent with the labeling of D-1 and D-2 receptor s, respectively. Light microscopic analysis of the localization of D-1 and D-2 receptors revealed an accumulation of the two radioligands in the epith elial and in the endothelial layers of the cornea. Conclusion. A possible r ole of the dopaminergic system in the control of the corneal functions is s uggested.