Ageing and alpha adrenoceptors in the Iris

Abstract

This study was undertaken to determine if the age related decrease in pupil size is attributable to altered sympathetic adrenoceptor responsiveness. Log dose response curves using the selective alpha1 agonist phenylephrine and antagonist thymoxamine showed that there is no difference in alpha1 adrenoceptor sensitivity in the elderly and the young. Therefore age related miosis is not caused by an alteration in alpha1 receptors with age. © 1987, The Ophthalmological Society of the United Kingdom. All rights reserved.