Retinal epithelial fine structure in the vervet monkey (Cercopithecus aethiops)

Abstract

The morphology of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and closely associated Bruch's membrane (complexus basalis) and choriocapillaris have been investigated by electron microscopy in the vervet monkey (Cercopithecus aethiops). The RPE is composed of a single layer of cuboidal cells joined laterally by apically-located junctional complexes. Basally (sclerally) these cells display numerous infoldings while apically (vitreally) abundant processes enclose and interdigitate with rod outer segments. Internally the large vesicular nucleus is centrally located and smooth endoplasmic reticulum. mitochondria and lysosome-like bodies. are plentiful. Rough endoplasmic reticulum, polysomes and melanosomes while present are not abundant. Phagosomes of outer segment discs are noted in various stages of uptake and degradation. The choriocapillaris is highly fenestrated over large areas. Bruch's membrane shows the typical pentalaminate structure noted in other mammalian species without a tapetum lucidum.