Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose: Neurogen regulation of tear secretion is attributed to parasympathetic nerves. In our preliminary studies we presented clinical and morphological evidences that antidromic stimulation of rat's trigeminal ganglia influences goblet cell, Meibomian gland and accessory lacrimal gland functions. The aim of our present studies was to reveal any parasympathetic involvolvement in these alterations. Method: Electrical stimulation of the trigeminal ganglia of rats were performed by skull microelectrode. Tear secretion was measured by standard Schirmer test, and the tarsal and bulbar conjunctiva were prepared for histological evaluation. These specimens were used as control (Group C). In a separated series of experiments were performed topical Capsaicin (1%) pretreatment (Group B), and in another series Atropin (1mg/kg)% i.v. pretreatment (Group A). Results: In the C group goblet cell density decresed in the stimulated side and both meibomian cells and accessory lacrimal gland cells stained more intensively compared to the unstimulated side. In group A pretreatment with Atropin showed no significant influences on the effects of electric stimulation. In the group B after pretreatment with topical application of Capsaicin, the electric stimulation was ineffective on the mucus, lipid and tear fluid secretion secretion. Conclusion: Our results suggested that alterations of mucus, lipid and tear fluid secretion after antidromic stimulation of rat's trigeminal ganglia were primarily affected by sensory nerve but not by parasympathetic nerve stimulation.
Keywords: 376 cornea: tears/tear film/dry eye • 437 inflammation • 442 innervation: sensation