What is the primary role of Descemet's membrane?

What is the primary role of Descemet's membrane?

• A. Anchors the endothelium to the stroma and acts as a protective barrier
• B. Produces aqueous humor
• C. Contains photoreceptors
• D. Forms the lens capsule

Answer: (A)

Descemet's membrane is the posterior basement membrane of the corneal endothelium. Its main role is to anchor the endothelial layer to the underlying stroma and to provide a sturdy barrier between the endothelium and stroma. This connection helps keep the cornea structurally stable and supports the endothelium’s job of maintaining corneal hydration for clarity. It’s produced by the endothelium itself. The other options refer to structures outside this area: aqueous humor is produced by the ciliary body, photoreceptors are in the retina, and the lens capsule is formed by the lens epithelial cells.

Descemet's membrane is the posterior basement membrane of the corneal endothelium. Its main role is to anchor the endothelial layer to the underlying stroma and to provide a sturdy barrier between the endothelium and stroma. This connection helps keep the cornea structurally stable and supports the endothelium’s job of maintaining corneal hydration for clarity. It’s produced by the endothelium itself. The other options refer to structures outside this area: aqueous humor is produced by the ciliary body, photoreceptors are in the retina, and the lens capsule is formed by the lens epithelial cells.