Corneal epithelium:(approximately 40-50 microns thick) The superficial collection of multiple layers of cells that line the corneal surface. These cells constantly regenerate as do the cells that cover the skin of the body.
Basement membrane: A small membrane laid down by the basal epithelial cells and upon which they rest. This membrane rests on Bowman's membrane.
Bowman's membrane:(approximately 15 microns thick) A membrane layer immediately below the epithelium and basement membrane which rests on the stroma.
Stroma: Makes up the bulk of the cornea; consists of multiple layers of collagen fibers, keratocytes, and water.
Stromal lamellae: Collagen fibers arranged in a transparent fashion within the stroma.
Keratocytes: The stromal cells.
Descemet's membrane: A membrane layer that is located beneath the stroma and above the endothelial cell layer.
Endothelial cells: A mosaic of cells lined up on Descemet's membrane. They cover the entire inner surface of the cornea and are responsible for keeping the cornea transparent.
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