Summary
If the corneal epithelium of the rabbit is completely removed the denuded surface is covered by conjunctival epithelium which can be recognized by its content of mucin droplets and by the relative absence of glycogen. After several weeks this epithelial layer assumes the appearance of normal corneal epithelium. Evidence is presented indicating that this is a true metaplasia. In regions where there is a superficial vascularized corneal scar, the conjunctival pattern of the ingrown epithelium persists.
Résumé
Lorsqu'on enlève complètement l'épithélium cornéen du lapin, la surface dénudée est couverte par de l'épithélium conjonctival reconnaissable par la présence de gouttelettes de mucine et l'absence relative de glycogène. Après plusieurs semaines cette couche, épithéliale prend l'aspect de l'épithélium cornéen normal. Il semble bien s'agir là d'une métaplasie vraie.
Dans les régions occupées par une cicatrice cornéenne super~ ficielle et vascularisée le caractère conjonctival de l'épithélium néoformé persiste.
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References
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This work was supported in part by a grant from the American Cancer Society.
Wilmer Ophthalmological Institute. Johns Hopkins University and Hospital.
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Friedenwald, J.S. Growth pressure and metaplasia of conjunctival and corneal epithelium. Doc Ophthalmol 5, 184–192 (1951). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00143661
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00143661