Lens fiber

Lens fiber is a specialized type of cell found in the eye. These cells make up the majority of the crystalline lens, which is responsible for focusing light onto the retina to form clear images.

Structure

Lens fibers are elongated, transparent cells that lack most cellular organelles, including the nucleus, mitochondria, and endoplasmic reticulum. This unique structure allows light to pass through the lens without scattering, ensuring that images are focused clearly on the retina.

Development

Lens fibers are derived from lens epithelial cells, which are located at the anterior surface of the lens. During development, these cells differentiate into lens fibers in a process known as fiber cell differentiation. This involves the elongation of the cells and the loss of cellular organelles.

Function

The primary function of lens fibers is to focus light onto the retina. They achieve this through their unique structure and the presence of high concentrations of crystallin proteins, which have refractive properties.

Pathology

Abnormalities in lens fiber cells can lead to various eye conditions. For example, mutations in the genes that encode crystallin proteins can cause cataracts, a condition characterized by clouding of the lens.

See also

• Eye
• Crystalline lens
• Retina
• Cataracts