How does the conjuctiva protects the cornea?

  • Thread starter PRINCESS NOOR
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In summary, the conjunctiva protects the cornea by secreting mucous for lubrication and cleaning. The vitreous humor and sclera have different functions in maintaining the shape of the eye, with the vitreous humor also aiding in lens maintenance. The lens is considered non-living due to its cells having little to no metabolism, but its proteins have an extremely long lifespan and are important for maintaining optical clarity. Cataracts can form when these proteins breakdown and aggregate, and antioxidants in the vitreous humor may help prevent this.
  • #1
PRINCESS NOOR
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i have certain questions related to the eye, which are need to be answer if possible:

1. how does the conjuctiva protects the cornea?
2. does the vitreous humour and the sclera have the same function?

(because i read in one book that the function of the vitreous humour is to maintain the shape of the eye,and i know the function of the sclera is to maintain the shape of the eye too).

3. does the lens consider as a living or non-living?why?

many thanx
 
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  • #2
PRINCESS NOOR said:
1. how does the conjuctiva protects the cornea?

The conjunctiva serves to secrete mucous to aid in lubrication and cleaning of the corneal surface.

PRINCESS NOOR said:
2. does the vitreous humour and the sclera have the same function?

(because i read in one book that the function of the vitreous humour is to maintain the shape of the eye,and i know the function of the sclera is to maintain the shape of the eye too).

You're right that they both take part in the shaping of the eye, but for two different reasons. The sclera in the outer membrane of the eye thus serving to hold everything in. Much of that "everything" is vitreous humor, a viscous fluid that also supports the eye by being bounded by the sclera, if the vitreous humor was not there the sclera would be an empty bag, if the sclera was not there all you would have is a puddle. The vitreous humor may also take place in lens maintenance since a considerable amount of the antioxidant, vitamin C, is found in this tissue, which brings us to...

PRINCESS NOOR said:
3. does the lens consider as a living or non-living?why?

The lens forms from the inside out and is made up primarily of cells containing crystallin proteins. These proteins, while in solution, allow the lens to function as an optically-clear, cell-based structure used to accommodate distance vision. These cells are no longer in contact with the circulatory system and thus have reduced metabolism to little or none, effectively making then non-living. The fascinating thing about these cells and their associated crystallin proteins is their extremely long lifespan. Most proteins live for at most hours or days, but these lens proteins must maintain solubility and optical clarity for the lifetime of the animal. This doesn't always happen and cataracts result which cloud the lens as these proteins breakdown and aggregate. That may be part of the function of the antioxidants found in the vitreous humor, to cut down on oxidative damage in the lens.

Check these websites for more eye/crystallin related material
http://webvision.med.utah.edu/
http://www.chemsoc.org/chembytes/ezine/2002/gross_jan02.htm
 
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  • #3


1. The conjunctiva is a thin, transparent layer of tissue that covers the front surface of the eye, including the cornea. It plays an important role in protecting the cornea by providing a barrier against foreign objects, bacteria, and other irritants from entering the eye. It also helps to lubricate the eye and keep it moist, which is essential for maintaining the health of the cornea. Additionally, the conjunctiva contains specialized cells that produce mucus, which helps to trap and remove any debris or particles that may come into contact with the cornea.

2. The vitreous humor and the sclera do not have the same function. The vitreous humor is a clear, gel-like substance that fills the space between the lens and the retina. Its main function is to provide support to the eyeball and maintain its shape. On the other hand, the sclera is the white, tough outer layer of the eye that helps to protect the delicate structures inside. It also provides attachment points for the muscles that control eye movement.

3. The lens is considered a non-living structure. It is made up of proteins and other molecules that do not have the ability to carry out metabolic processes or reproduce. However, it is a vital part of the eye and plays a crucial role in focusing light onto the retina, which allows us to see. Without the lens, our vision would be greatly affected.
 

1. How does the conjunctiva physically protect the cornea?

The conjunctiva is a thin, transparent membrane that covers the front of the eye and lines the inside of the eyelids. It acts as a barrier against physical damage, such as dust, dirt, and other foreign particles, by providing a smooth surface for them to slide off of.

2. What role does the conjunctival mucus play in protecting the cornea?

The conjunctiva produces a thin layer of mucus that helps to keep the surface of the eye moist and lubricated. This moisture also helps to trap and remove any foreign particles that may come into contact with the eye, preventing them from reaching the cornea.

3. Does the conjunctiva have any immune functions in protecting the cornea?

Yes, the conjunctiva contains immune cells, such as white blood cells, that help to fight off infections and foreign invaders that may come in contact with the eye. These cells also play a role in repairing any damage to the cornea.

4. How does the conjunctiva protect the cornea from UV rays?

The conjunctiva contains pigments that help to absorb harmful UV rays from the sun. This prevents these rays from reaching the cornea and causing damage, such as sunburn or even cancer.

5. Can the conjunctiva be damaged and affect its ability to protect the cornea?

Yes, the conjunctiva can be damaged by various factors, such as infections, allergies, and injuries. This can compromise its protective functions and increase the risk of damage to the cornea. It is important to take care of the conjunctiva and seek medical attention if any damage occurs.

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