What is the role of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)?
The RPE is a layer of pigmented cells located between the retina and the choroid. It has several critical functions:
1. Absorption of Light: The pigment in the RPE absorbs scattered light, improving visual acuity. 2. Nourishment: It provides nutrients to the photoreceptor cells. 3. Phagocytosis: It engulfs and digests shed photoreceptor outer segments. 4. Barrier Function: It forms part of the blood-retina barrier, regulating the exchange of substances between the retina and choroid.
