[Changes in the outer plexiform layer of the rabbit retina after long-term application of vincristine]

Abstract

Rabbits which had been intravenously injected with Vincristine for six weeks showed changes in the outer plexiform layer of the retina after one year, which suggests the destruction of receptor cells, bipolar ganglion cells, and horizontal cells. Compensated cell damage accompanied by loss of microtubuli in the cytoplasma, autolytic vacuoles, granular material deposits, and membrane changes of the ribbon complex were frequently observed. A comparison between axons and dendrites showed a predominance of damaged dendritis over axons. Because short-term studies have not produced the same results, different regeneration capacities, which might have their origin in the endoplasmatic reticulum, are discussed.