Anatomy and physiology of the cornea

J Cataract Refract Surg. 2011 Mar;37(3):588-98. doi: 10.1016/j.jcrs.2010.12.037.

Abstract

The importance of the cornea to the ocular structure and visual system is often overlooked because of the cornea's unassuming transparent nature. The cornea lacks the neurobiological sophistication of the retina and the dynamic movement of the lens; yet, without its clarity, the eye would not be able to perform its necessary functions. The complexity of structure and function necessary to maintain such elegant simplicity is the wonder that draws us to one of the most important components of our visual system.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bowman Membrane / anatomy & histology
  • Bowman Membrane / physiology
  • Cornea / anatomy & histology*
  • Cornea / physiology*
  • Corneal Stroma / anatomy & histology
  • Corneal Stroma / physiology
  • Descemet Membrane / anatomy & histology
  • Descemet Membrane / physiology
  • Endothelium, Corneal / anatomy & histology
  • Endothelium, Corneal / physiology
  • Epithelium, Corneal / anatomy & histology
  • Epithelium, Corneal / physiology
  • Humans
  • Ophthalmic Nerve / anatomy & histology
  • Sympathetic Nervous System / anatomy & histology