Fine Structure of the Retinal Pigment Epithelium, Bruch's Membrane and Choriocapillaris in the Horse

Author: Altunay, H.

Source: Anatomia, Histologia, Embryologia, Volume 29, Number 3, June 2000 , pp. 135-139(5)

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Abstract:

Summary

The fine structure of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), Bruch's membrane and choriocapillaris was investigated by light and transmission electron microscopy in both the tapetal and non-tapetal fundus of the horse eye. In all locations, the RPE consisted of a single layer of low cuboidal cells. The epithelial cells were joined laterally by apically located tight junctions. These cells displayed numerous basal infoldings and abundant thin apical processes which enclosed the rod outer segments. The epithelial cell nuclei were large and located basally. Within the epithelial cells, smooth endoplasmic reticulum was very abundant, while rough endoplasmic reticulum was scarce. polysomes and mitochondria, which often display a ring-shaped struccture, were abundant. Melanosomes were abundant in the non-tapetal area but absent in the tapetal area. Bruch's membrane was pentalaminate throughout the retina. The endothelium of the choriocapillaris was heavily fenestrated.

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1046/j.1439-0264.2000.00241.x

Publication date: 2000-06-01