Retinal Pigmented Epithelium (RPE) and the Choroid: Players and Partners for Vision

Dear Colleagues,

We are announcing a Special Issue of Cells focusing on the two functionally closely linked tissues that underpin neuroretina’s structure and function: retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and choroid. We are inviting your contributions of original research papers or reviews of recent topical findings aimed at furthering the understanding of cellular events, mechanistic processes and communication engaging these tissues in health, aging and disease. This Special issue will highlight the relationship of the RPE to photoreceptor cells and choroid, the complexity of their multi-level relations and the importance of these interactions to sight.

The RPE is strategically situated between the photoreceptor cells of neural retina and the choroidal vasculature. The functions of this cell monolayer include the phagocytosis of the shed photoreceptor cell outer segment membrane; implementation of crucial steps in the visual cycle; absorption of scattered light; ion and fluid transport and metabolic synergy with photoreceptor cells and maintenance of a healthy choroid. The crucial nature of these activities is apparent from the numbers of genetic diseases associated with RPE-expressed proteins; the involvement of RPE in age-related macular degeneration; the importance of maintaining RPE-photoreceptor cell apposition; and the developmental consequences of RPE melanin deficiency on foveal development and on the projections of retinal ganglion cells axons.

Prof. Dr. Luminita Paraoan
Prof. Dr. Janet R. Sparrow
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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