The effects of insulin on the electroretinogram of bovine retina in vitro.

PURPOSE

This study investigates the role of insulin in retinal function by examining the effects of insulin on the a- and b-waves of the electroretinogram (ERG) recorded from an in vitro bovine retina eye-cup preparation.

METHODS

Bovine eyes were enucleated immediately after exsanguination, hemisected to form an eye cup, and transported to the laboratory in oxygenated medium. Eye cups were then transferred to a perfusion system that provided constant superfusion of oxygenated perfusate solution to the retina, enabling it to remain in a functional state in vitro. The ERG was recorded, as the retinal response to photic stimulation, from electrodes mounted within the perfusion system. The effects of insulin on the ERG were investigated by adding insulin to the perfusate solution.

RESULTS

Application of insulin to the in vitro retina preparation decreased the amplitudes of the a- and b-waves of the ERG in a dose dependent manner with a maximal effect at doses of 0.1 U/ml and above. These effects were reversible.

CONCLUSION

The reduction of ERG amplitudes may result from the hyperpolarising effect of insulin reported in other tissues. The findings suggest that insulin may have a regulatory role in retinal activity; however extrapolation of these results to the intact organism is dependent on the presence of insulin in retina.