Free

E-Newsletters

Subscribe to receive the latest updates on health topics. About our newsletters

  • Housecall
  • Alzheimer's caregiving
  • Living with cancer

Image

Retina cross section

Illustration showing retina cross section

The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a thin layer of tissue sandwiched between the photosensitive cells of the retina and the layer of blood vessels contained in the choroid. The RPE forms the outermost surface of the retina and provides a critical passageway for nutrients and waste products between the retina and the choroid.
IM00257

© 1998-2012 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.com," "EmbodyHealth," "Enhance your life," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.

Advertisement


Text Size: smaller largerlarger