The outer blood-retinal barrier is formed by tight junctions between which structures?

Prepare for the NBEO Ocular Anatomy Posterior Segment and Cranial Nerves Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

The outer blood-retinal barrier is formed by tight junctions between which structures?

Explanation:
Tight junctions at the apical surface of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells create the outer blood-retinal barrier. These junctions seal the space between adjacent RPE cells facing the photoreceptors, preventing unregulated paracellular flow from the choroidal circulation into the neural retina while still allowing RPE to transport nutrients and waste. The inner barrier is formed by tight junctions between retinal capillary endothelial cells, not by the RPE. Photoreceptor outer segments don’t form barrier junctions, and Müller cells support retinal structure and homeostasis but aren’t the site of this barrier.

Tight junctions at the apical surface of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells create the outer blood-retinal barrier. These junctions seal the space between adjacent RPE cells facing the photoreceptors, preventing unregulated paracellular flow from the choroidal circulation into the neural retina while still allowing RPE to transport nutrients and waste. The inner barrier is formed by tight junctions between retinal capillary endothelial cells, not by the RPE. Photoreceptor outer segments don’t form barrier junctions, and Müller cells support retinal structure and homeostasis but aren’t the site of this barrier.

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