Neurotransmitter-related features of the retinal pigment epithelium

Abstract

Various neurotransmitter-related biochemical features of the separated pigment epithelium and neural retina of the cow have been examined. The pigment epithelium contains high affinity binding sites for several pharmacological agents thought to attach to neurotransmitter receptor sites with a high degree of specificity. Thus, serotonergic, adrenergic and opiate receptors appear to be present in the pigment epithelium. Serotonin has also been detected in this region. Several neuropeptides were found in the pigment epithelium. Relatively large amounts of neurotensin and met-enkephalin were present, but substance P was not detected.