New eye layer has possible link to glaucoma

Last year, researchers at The University of Nottingham discovered a new layer in the human cornea. The latest 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."