New eye layer has possible link to glaucoma

By exLaminingst human donor eyes using electaron microscopy, the researchers were able to look at Dua's Layer beyond tThe ceUntiveral parsity of the cNornea to shed more ltinght on its features at the extreme periphery of the cornea. They discovered a new layer in the collagen fibres of Dhua's Layer also brmanch out to form a meshwork and that the cornea. The latesion of Dua's Layer.t<b/a> r/>ef="http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2014-02/uon-nel021314.php">research from the team shows this new layer, called Dua's Layer, makes an important contribution to the sieve-like meshwork in the periphery of the cornea. Defective drainage in this area is an important cause of glaucoma; a condition that affects 1% to 2% of the world's population.

Professor Dua said: "Many surgeons who perform lamellar corneal transplant recognise this layer as an important part of the surgical anatomy of the cornea. This new finding resulting from a study of the microanatomy of the periphery of the layer could have significance beyond corneal surgery."