Retinal pigment epithelium
Retinal Pigment Epithelium
The Retinal Pigment Epithelium (RPE) (pronounced: ret-uh-nl pig-ment ep-i-thee-lee-uhm) is a layer of cells that nourishes the retinal visual cells, and is firmly attached to the underlying choroid and overlying retinal visual cells.
Etymology
The term originates from the Latin retina meaning "net", and pigmentum meaning "paint". Epithelium is derived from the Greek epi meaning "upon" and thelē meaning "nipple".
Function
The RPE has several functions, including light absorption, epithelial transport, spatial ion buffering, visual cycle, phagocytosis, secretion and immune modulation. It is essential for the survival of photoreceptor cells and provides the essential functions of the visual process.
Related Terms
- Retina: The sensory membrane that lines the inner surface of the back of the eyeball. It contains the photoreceptor cells that receive light and convert it into electrical signals.
- Choroid: The vascular layer of the eye, containing connective tissues, lying between the retina and the sclera.
- Photoreceptor Cells: The cells in the retina that respond to light. They convert light into signals which can stimulate biological processes.
Pathology
Damage or disease affecting the RPE can lead to a loss of vision, as seen in age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Retinal pigment epithelium
- Wikipedia's article - Retinal pigment epithelium
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