Anatomy

Retinal Pigment Epithelium

The single layer of pigment-containing epithelial cells in the RETINA, situated closely to the tips (outer segments) of the RETINAL PHOTORECEPTOR CELLS. These epithelial cells are macroglia that perform essential functions for the photoreceptor cells, such as in nutrient transport, phagocytosis of the shed photoreceptor membranes, and ensuring retinal attachment.

National Library of MedicineMedical Subject Headings2026

Structured Summary

Abstract

The single layer of pigment-containing epithelial cells in the RETINA, situated closely to the tips (outer segments) of the RETINAL PHOTORECEPTOR CELLS. These epithelial cells are macroglia that perform essential functions for the photoreceptor cells, such as in nutrient transport, phagocytosis of the shed photoreceptor membranes, and ensuring retinal attachment.

MeSH Record

Classification

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MeSH Record

Synonyms

2 entry terms
  • Epithelium, Retinal Pigment
  • Pigment Epithelium, Retinal

MeSH Record

Aspects Covered

24 allowable subheadings

Indexed with the subheadings abnormalities, anatomy & histology, blood supply, chemistry, cytology, diagnostic imaging, drug effects, embryology, enzymology, growth & development, immunology, injuries, innervation, metabolism, microbiology, parasitology, pathology, physiology, physiopathology, radiation effects, surgery, transplantation, ultrastructure, virology.

MeSH Record

History Note

2009; use PIGMENT EPITHELIUM OF EYE 1976-2008

MeSH Record

Previous Indexing

  • Pigment Epithelium of Eye (1976-2008)
  • Retina (1963-2008)

MeSH Hierarchy

Tree Numbers

AMA Style

References

  1. National Library of Medicine. Retinal Pigment Epithelium. Medical Subject Headings (MeSH). 2026. Unique ID D055213. http://id.nlm.nih.gov/mesh/2026/D055213
  2. Retinal Pigment Epithelium. In: Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Retinal_pigment_epithelium
  3. Retinal Pigment Epithelium. In: Wikidata. https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q2346242