AIM:To investigate the role of caveolin-1(Cav-1)in the retina by examining the ocular function in Cav-1 null mice.

METHODS: The expression of Cav-1 was examined by immunofluorescence combined with confocal microscopy. Retinal structure in wild type(WT)and Cav-1 null mice was examined by HE staining. In vivo retinal function in WT and Cav-1 null mice was assessed by full-field scotopic electroretinography(ERG)following overnight dark adaptation.

RESULTS: Cav-1 null mice displayed reduced a-wave and b-wave amplitudes and reduced sensitivity as measured by ERG. However, the general structure of Cav^-/- retina was largely normal. Collectively, this implies the impairment of retinal function in Cav^-/- retina was not intrinsic to photoreceptor.

CONCLUSION: The observation that Cav-1 null mice show abnormal retinal function, in vivo but normal photoreceptor structure suggests that the retinal microenvironment rather than the photoreceptor itself is impaired. These may result in a disturbance in retinal pH, water or ion homeostasis therefore altering the subretinal milieu.