Describe the vitreous humor of the dissected eye.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Correct Answer:
The vitreous humor of a dissected eye is a clear, gel-like substance that fills the space between the lens and the retina in the posterior chamber of the eye.
The vitreous humor (also known as the vitreous body) is a transparent, gelatinous material that occupies approximately two-thirds of the eye’s volume. It lies in the posterior segment, between the lens at the front and the retina at the back of the eye. During dissection, the vitreous humor appears as a clear, jelly-like substance that maintains the eye’s spherical shape and provides structural support.
This humor is composed of about 99% water, with the remaining 1% consisting of collagen fibers, hyaluronic acid, and other proteins that help maintain its gel consistency. Despite being mostly water, its unique composition gives it a firm, gel-like texture that is noticeably different from regular fluids when handled during dissection.
Functionally, the vitreous humor plays several key roles:
- Maintains intraocular pressure, helping the eye retain its round shape.
- Supports the retina by keeping it pressed against the choroid, ensuring proper functioning and nutrition.
- Light transmission: Its transparency allows light to pass through without distortion to reach the retina.
- Shock absorption: It acts as a cushion, protecting the eye’s internal structures from trauma.
Unlike the aqueous humor, which is continually produced and drained, the vitreous humor is not replenished. It remains largely unchanged after formation during embryonic development, though it may become more liquid with age—a process called vitreous syneresis, which can lead to floaters or, in some cases, retinal detachment.
In summary, the vitreous humor is an essential component of the eye’s anatomy, visible during dissection as a clear, jelly-like mass that contributes to optical clarity, eye structure, and retinal health
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