RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Nucleotides in the Eye: Focus on Functional Aspects and Therapeutic Perspectives
JF Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics
JO J Pharmacol Exp Ther
FD American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics
SP 331
OP 341
DO 10.1124/jpet.112.202473
VO 345
IS 3
A1 Guzman-Aranguez, Ana
A1 Santano, Concepcion
A1 Martin-Gil, Alba
A1 Fonseca, Begoña
A1 Pintor, Jesús
YR 2013
UL http://jpet.aspetjournals.org/content/345/3/331.abstract
AB The presence and activity of nucleotides and dinucleotides in the physiology of most, if not all, organisms, from bacteria to humans, have been recognized by the scientific community, and the eye is no exception. Nucleotides in the dynamic fluids interact with many ocular structures, such as the tears and aqueous humor. Moreover, high concentrations of nucleotides in these secretions may reflect disease states such as dry eye and glaucoma. Apart from the nucleotide concentration in these fluids, P2 purinergic receptors have been described on the ocular surface (cornea and conjunctiva), anterior pole (ciliary body, trabecular meshwork), and posterior pole (retina). P2X and P2Y purinergic receptors are essential in maintaining the homeostasis of ocular processes, such as tear secretion, aqueous humor production, or retinal modulation. When they are functioning properly, they allow the eye to do its job (to see), but in some cases, a lack or an excess of nucleotides or a malfunction in the corresponding purinergic receptors leads to disease. This Perspective is focused on the nucleotides and dinucleotides and the P2 purinergic receptors in the eye and how they contribute to normal and disease states. We also emphasize the action of nucleotides and their receptors and antagonists as potential therapeutic agents.