Three-Dimensional Characterization of the Normal Human Parafoveal Microvasculature Using Structural Criteria and High-Resolution Confocal Microscopy.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

To use structural criteria to reconcile the three-dimensional organization and connectivity of the parafoveal microvasculature.

Methods

The parafoveal microvasculature was perfused and labeled in 16 normal human donor eyes for lectin, alpha smooth muscle actin, and filamentous actin. Established structural criteria gathered using confocal microscopy, including vessel diameter, endothelial cell morphology, and presence/density of smooth muscle cells, were used to differentiate arteries, arterioles, capillaries, venules, and veins. Three-dimensional visualization strategies were used to define the connections between retinal arteries and veins within the superficial vascular plexus (SVP), intermediate capillary plexus (ICP), and deep capillary plexus (DCP).

Results<

SUBMITTER: An D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7443114 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature