Glucocorticoid localization by radioautography in the rabbit eye following systemic administration of 3H-dexamethasone.

Dexamethasone was localized radioautographically in the nuclei of target cells of the rabbit eye following intravenous administration of the labeled steroid. Specifically bound steroid was found in the nuclei of stromal and endothelial cells of the outflow pathway region. This suggests that the glucocorticoid-induced alteration in outflow facility may be mediated by specific effects in these target cells. Nuclear localization was also found in conjunctiva, iridial smooth muscle, choroidal stroma, retina, and sclera, suggesting a physiologic role for glucocorticoids in these tissues as well.