Objective To observe the expression of 5-HT receptor 14 subtype mRNAs in the rat retina. Methods RT-PCR technique was used. Specific oligonucleotide primers were synthesized based on the complementary DNA sequence for each of the 14 cloned rat 5-HT receptor subtypes. Expression of 5-HT 1A、5-HT 2A、5-HT 2C、5-HT 3 and 5-HT 7 receptor subtype mRNAs were detected. Results Positive band densities of various 5-HT receptor subtypes were different in retina. The most bands were formed by 5-HT 7 and 5-HT 2A receptor subtypes, the secondary prominent bands were formed by 5-HT 2C and 5-HT 3 receptor subtypes. PCR products from each positively-detected receptor subtype were subcloned into pCRⅡ vector for sequencing and found in correspond to published complementary DNA sequences. No positive bands existed of 5-HT 1B, 5-HT 1D, 5-HT 1E, 5-HT 1F, 5-HT 2B, 5-HT 4, 5-HT 5A, 5-HT 5Band 5-HT 6receptor subtypes. Conclusions There may exist varieties of 5-HT receptor in rat retina, including 5-HT 1A, 5-HT 2A, 5-HT 2C, 5-HT 3 and 5-HT 7 receptor subtypes. It means the retina serotoninergic system may be a common feature in mammals and, by the light of the 5-HT receptor subtypes, play an important role in mediating the transmission of rod sensitive signals.

Objective　To evaluate the effect of intravascular occlusion for carotid cavernous fistula (CCF) by analying the clinical features of CCF. Methods　Twelve cases with CCF were analysed on their medical histories, clinical features in the eyes, clinical examinations and the therapeutic effects of balloon occlusion in internal carotid artery.Results　Ten cases were treated successfully(83.33%), in which 2 cases were treated once more. There was no operation complication. The visual acuity of one case increased from no light perception to finger movement within 1 week preoperatively. The visual acuity of 10 cases improved 1～4 lines (Snellen chart). Some clinical symptoms and signs such as the lid, conjunctiva swelling, diplopia, the movement of eyeball and retinal hemorrhage were decreased remarkably. Carotid fistula of 12 cases with CCF were found to be occlusioned by digital subtraction angiography after operations.Conclusion　The early diagnosis and treatment for CCF are necessary. Color doppler flow imaging, CT and DSA are useful examination methods for diagnosis of CCF. Intravascular occlusion is the best therapeutic method for CCF nowadays.