The Phototoxicity of 'Blue Light' on the Functional Properties of the Retinal Pigment Epithelium
Abstract
Irradiation of the isolated bovine retinal pigment epithelium with 430 nm light at 20 mW/cm2 inhibited the unidirectional flux of leucine, glutamate and chloride in the retina to choroid direction; however, this intensity also produced discernible damage to the mitochondria. Reducing the level of radiation did not affect any of the transport systems studied. Ascorbate, morin or vitamin E did not ameliorate the effect of blue light on transport, whereas melatonin did provide protection by forming an effective light filter. The combination of ethanol and exposure to blue light may constitute a health hazard for humans. Retina-derived factor(s) applied to the apical side of the preparation resulted in a stabilization of the TEP and SCC, followed by a secondary rise in both electrical parameters. These results lead to the hypotheses that the neural retina secretes a factor(s) which is essential for the regulation and maintenance of the RPE under normal physiological conditions and may facilitate repair processes in pathological states.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 15, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA230072
Entities
People
- E. L. Pautler
Organizations
- Colorado State University