Cellular localization of prostaglandin E in the rabbit iris by indirect immunofluorescence method.

To demonstrate the cellular localization of prostaglandin E (PGE) in the normal and irritated rabbit iris, the indirect immunofluorescence method was employed. The amounts of PGE1 and PGF2 alpha in the aqueous humor were determined with radioimmunoassay. Immunofluorescence of PGE was observed in the cytoplasm of mesenchymal cells of the iris. PGE-positive cells in the normal iris were scattered in the fibrous stroma, and the shape of these cells was oval to spindle-shaped. The numbers of these cells were remarkably increased in the iridectomized and inflamed iris. The amounts of PGE1 in the aqueous humor was 2.0 +/- 0.53 ng/ml in the normal eyes and 7.92 +/- 2.93 ng/ml in the irritated eyes. The mean level of PGF2 alpha was 0.4 +/- 0.27 ng/ml in the normal eyes and 0.8 +/- 0.58 ng/ml in the irritated eyes.