Corneal Tissue Observed by Atomic Force Microscopy

The cornea is the transparent avascular part of the anterior segment of the eye and consists of a stratified nonkeratinizing squamous epithelium, a stromal dense connective tissue layer, and an endothelium facing the anterior chamber. The cornea contributes largely to the intraocular refraction of the light. Damage can impair its tissue transparency and lead to loss of vision. Significant diseases, such as corneal dystrophies, keratoconus, and refractive errors, are related to the structure and integrity of the cornea.