Effects of Atropine on ERG and Optic Nerve Response in the Cat

Histochemical (Koelle et al., 1952; Francis, 1953; Nichols & Koelle, 1967, 1968; Dickson et al., 1971; Lam, 1972; Vogel & Nirenberg, 1976) and physiological (Noell & Lsansky, Muller-Limmroth, 1959; Valtsev, 1966; Strashill, 1968; Ames & Pollen, 1969; Murakami, Ohtsu & Ohtsuka, 1972; Zak & Lelekova, 1975; Masland, Ames & Livingstone, 1975) evidences suggest the presence of cholinergic transmitting mechanisms in the retinae of a variety of vertebrates. The distribution of Acetylcholine-receptors in the outer and inner plexiform layers varies among these species. In mammals, in contrast to birds, a higher cholinergic activity seems to be confined to the inner as compared to the outer plexiform layer (Francis, 1953; Vogel & Nirenberg, 1976).