The trabecular meshwork of the eye is a complex structure that helps regulate the flow of aqueous humor, a fluid in the eye that helps maintain the eye's shape. The spelling of "trabecular meshwork" can be a challenge, as it includes a cluster of consonants in the middle of the word ("brk"), as well as some uncommon vowel combinations. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is pronounced /trəˈbɛkjʊlər ˈmɛʃwɜrk əv ði ˈaɪ/, with stress on the second syllable of "trabecular" and the first syllable of "meshwork."
The trabecular meshwork of the eye is a highly specialized and intricate network of tissue located in the anterior chamber angle, which is the area between the cornea and the iris. It plays a crucial role in regulating the outflow of aqueous humor, the clear fluid that fills the front part of the eye.
This meshwork is composed of thin, delicate beams or strands of connective tissue arranged in a lattice-like pattern. It forms the primary drainage pathway for the aqueous humor to exit the eye and regulates intraocular pressure. The trabecular meshwork acts as a filter, allowing the fluid to flow out of the eye while preventing debris, cells, and other substances from exiting.
Located at the junction of the cornea and the iris, the trabecular meshwork acts as a gatekeeper for maintaining the balance between production and drainage of aqueous humor, thus regulating intraocular pressure. Any abnormalities or dysfunction in the trabecular meshwork can lead to increased intraocular pressure, which, if left untreated, can result in glaucoma, a serious eye condition that may lead to vision loss or even blindness.
Given its vital function in eye health, the trabecular meshwork is a crucial structure that is constantly under scientific research to better understand its physiology, regulation, and potential therapeutic targets for glaucoma treatments.