Adrenergic regulation of intraocular pressure: identification of beta 2-adrenergic-stimulated adenylate cyclase in ciliary process epithelium.

To determine the site and possible mechanism of action of adrenergic agents in regulating intraocular pressure, experiments were undertaken to identify, localize, and characterize beta-adrenergic receptors associated with adenylate cyclase in various ocular tissues involved in secretion and reabsorption of aqueous humor. The ciliary process epithelium was found to be enriched in an adenylate cyclase with pharmacological characteristics indicative of a predominance of beta 2-adrenergic receptors. The results are consistent with the possibility that the adrenergic nervous system may regulate aqueous humor production through a direct effect on secretion. The data also are relevant to the potential development of drugs that can control increased intraocular pressure.