[The neuroanatomical and physiological bases of variations in intraocular pressure].

Intraocular pressure displays a distinct circadian rhythm in animals and humans, with an increase at night and a decrease during the daytime. In animals, the IOP rhythm has been reported to be synchronized by environmental light and to persist in constant darkness, demonstrating a circadian component controlled by an endogenous pacemaker. The structures involved in the rhythmic regulation of intraocular pressure include the suprachiasmatic nucleus, which controls the activity of sympathetic and parasympathetic ocular innervation. These effectors are responsible for controlling the production (beta-adrenergic system) and the outflow (alpha1-adrenergic, parasympathetic system, prostaglandin) of aqueous humor. The production of aqueous humor is under adrenergic control (alpha1- and beta-receptors). Many neuropeptides such as vasoactive intestinal peptide, substance P, and the atrial natriuretic peptide are also involved in the regulation of intraocular pressure. A better understanding of the circadian regulation of intraocular pressure is needed for an appropriate treatment of ocular hypertension and glaucoma.