Trabecular meshworks are a network of tissue in the eye that help drain fluid. The spelling of this word can be broken down using the IPA phonetic transcription. "Trabecular" is pronounced /trəˈbɛkjʊlər/ with the stress on the second syllable. "Meshworks" is pronounced /ˈmɛʃwɜːks/ with the stress on the first syllable. This complex spelling can be difficult for some, but it is an important medical term for eye specialists and those studying the anatomy of the eye.
Trabecular meshwork refers to a specialized tissue structure in the eye that plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of aqueous humor, a fluid that nourishes the cornea and lens. It is located in the anterior chamber angle, which is formed by the cornea, iris, and ciliary body.
The trabecular meshwork consists of a network of delicate, interconnected beams or strands of tissue resembling a mesh-like pattern. These beams are made up of collagen fibers and other connective tissue components. They form a filtering system that controls the outflow of aqueous humor from the anterior chamber into the bloodstream through small channels called Schlemm's canal.
The trabecular meshwork serves as the primary drainage pathway for aqueous humor. It helps maintain the proper intraocular pressure inside the eye, which is necessary for maintaining the shape and function of the globe. Dysfunction or blockage of the trabecular meshwork can lead to increased intraocular pressure, a condition known as glaucoma.
Various factors can affect the health and functionality of the trabecular meshwork, such as age, genetics, and certain eye diseases. Researchers are continuously studying the trabecular meshwork and its physiological mechanisms to better understand and develop treatments for eye conditions related to its malfunction.
The word "trabecular" has its origins in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word "trabecula", meaning a small beam or a supporting structure. "Meshworks" is a combination of the word "mesh", which refers to a network of interconnected threads or fibers, and "works", which indicates a system or structure.
So, the term "trabecular meshworks" in the context of anatomy, specifically refers to a network-like structure consisting of interconnecting beams or threads, commonly found in various tissues and organs of the body such as the trabecular meshwork in the eye, which is responsible for draining aqueous humor.