Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose: We investigate precise localization of PDE α, ß and δ in the retina preserved close to the native state by rapid freezing. Methods: Retinas were isolated from dark–adapted frog, and immediately frozen quickly by plunging onto copper block cooled with liquid helium. Frozen retinas were freeze–substituted with acetone containing 1% tannic acid at –80°C. After substitution, retinas were embedded in Lowicryl K4M or LR White. For immunocytochemistry, we employed polyclonal antibodies raised against the peptide of PDE α, ß and δ. Results: Immuno–reactivity of antibodies to the frog retina was examined by western blot. Three antibodies recognized respectively well. Anti–PDE δ antibodies binding sites were found specifically in both outer and inner segments. In outer segment, especially, PDE δ was localized rich in basal region. PDE α and ß showed similar distribution in rod outer segments. It should be noted that PDE α was found frequently along the incisures. Conclusions: PDE δ as well as PDE α, ß was localized in rods and cones outer segment, but rich in the basal region. In contrast, PDE α was found frequently along the incisures.
Keywords: retina • immunohistochemistry • microscopy: electron microscopy