RPE lipofuscin and its role in retinal pathobiology

Emerging evidence indicates that the autofluorescent pigments that accumulate as lipofuscin in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells may reach levels that contribute to a decline in cell function. Since recent findings with respect to the origin, composition and adverse effects of RPE lipofuscin have informed our view of this material, the goal of this article is to review our current understanding of these issues.