Action of chloroquine on in vivo RNA and protein biosynthesis in the retina and the optic pathway of the rabbit.

The in vivo action of chloroquine on RNA and protein metabolism in the optic pathway of the albino or pigmented rabbit was examined. To study the acute effects, chloroquine in a dose of 500 mug was injected into the vitreous body of one eye. The following day the animals were injected into both eyes with [3H]uridine or [3H]leucine. At various time intervals following the isotope injections the retinal synthesis and the axonal transport of labelled RNA or protein was studied. The results showed no significant difference between the drug-treated and the control side with respect to synthesis and axonal transport of RNA or protein. Nor was any selective effect noticed on the synthesis of different RNA fractions from the retina. In long-term experiments chloroqune (100 mg/kg body weight) was administered via their drinking water 3 days a week for a period of 6 or 8 months. Following an intraocular injection of [3H]leucine no significant change in rapid axonal transport could be found in those chronically treated rabbits.