Visualization of human choroidal ganglion cells with the supravital fluorescent dye 4-(4-diethylaminostyryl)-N-methylpyridium iodide.

Abstract

The distribution and morphology of ganglion cell bodies and nerve fibers in supravital human choroidea is studied by staining with the fluorescent dye 4-(4-diethylaminostyryl)-N-methylpyridium iodide (4-Di-2-ASP). We have used the choroids from human donor eyes donated for cornea transplantation. The isolated tissues were rinsed in ringer solution and processed within up to 24 h after death with 3 microM of 4-Di-2-ASP in Ringer for 5-60 min at different temperatures (4-37 degrees C). After incubation, choroid whole flat mounts were observed in a fluorescence microscope. A delicate network of nerve fibers could be distinguished as soon as 5 min after immersion in 4-Di-2-ASP. In addition, labelled ganglion cell perikarya could be seen after longer incubation periods. They occurred individually or grouped in small ganglia of up to 8 cells and were linked together by various processes, which could also be traced to blood vessels. The fluorescent dye 4-Di-2-ASP provides a quick and simple method to visualize the innervation of the human choroid, including local ganglion cells. This nontoxic fluorescent technique will permit further manipulation and electrophysiological investigation of choroidal innervation.

• Authors: A Bergua, W L Neuhuber, G O Naumann
• Journal: Ophthalmic research (Ophthalmic Res) Vol. 26 Issue 5 Pg. 290-5 ( 1994) ISSN: 0030-3747 [Print] Switzerland
• PMID: 7877799 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)

Chemical References

• Fluorescent Dyes
• Pyridinium Compounds
• 4-(4-diethylaminostyryl)-N-methylpyridinium

Topics

• Adolescent
• Adult
• Aged
• Aged, 80 and over
• Choroid (innervation)
• Fluorescent Dyes
• Ganglia, Sensory (anatomy & histology)
• Humans
• Microscopy, Fluorescence
• Middle Aged
• Nerve Fibers (metabolism)
• Neurons (cytology)
• Pyridinium Compounds
• Tissue Donors