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Chapter-003 The Human Cornea: Basic Structure and Function

BOOK TITLE: Copeland and Afshari's Principles and Practice of Cornea (2 Volumes)

Author
1. Duong Hon-Vu Q
ISBN
9789350901724
DOI
10.5005/jp/books/11777_3
Edition
1/e
Publishing Year
2013
Pages
17
Author Affiliations
1. Westfield-Nevada Eye and Ear, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
Chapter keywords
Corneal epithelium, stroma, glycocalyx, intraocular contents, epithelial injury, stromal wound healing, corneal transparency, corneal epithelial metabolism

Abstract

The corneal epithelium is the outermost layer of the cornea and forms a barrier between the environment and the stroma of the cornea. The corneal epithelium is nonkeratinized stratified squamous. The surface epithelium has numerous microvilli and microplicae and these cells secrete glycocalyx which helps in adhesion and stability of the tear film forming a smooth refractive surface on the cornea required for clear vision. Its function is to protect the cornea and the intraocular contents from exogenous infection induced by microbes. The chapter is well summarized with flowcharts and images which gives a clear idea about certain concepts like epithelial injury and wound healing, electrophysiology and ion transport, epithelial metabolism, the effect of contact lenses on corneal epithelial metabolism, Bowman’s membrane, corneal stroma, stromal wound healing, corneal transparency, Descemet’s membrane, corneal endothelium, corneal response to injury, corneal vasculature, corneal innervation and sensitivity, and corneal pharmacology.

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