Related Experiment Videos
Retinal photoreceptor density decreases with age
S Panda-Jonas1, J B Jonas, M Jakobczyk-Zmija
1Department of Ophthalmology and Eye Hospital, University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Germany.
Ophthalmology
|December 1, 1995
Summary
As people age, the density of retinal photoreceptors decreases, particularly rods. This age-related cell loss, affecting vision, is more pronounced in certain retinal areas.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
Background:
- Age-related changes in the retina can impact visual function.
- Photoreceptor cells (rods and cones) are crucial for vision.
- Understanding age-related photoreceptor loss is vital for diagnosing and treating visual impairments in older adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of aging on human retinal photoreceptor density.
- To quantify the rate of photoreceptor loss with increasing age.
Main Methods:
- Examined 55 normal human donor eyes (mean age 58.7 years).
- Obtained 25 retinal tissue samples from four meridians.
- Counted photoreceptors on inner segment photographs after sonographic outer segment removal.
Main Results:
- Photoreceptor density significantly decreased with age outside the foveal center.
- Rod loss (0.37%/mm²/year) was greater than cone loss (0.18%/mm²/year).
- Cell loss was more pronounced at 5-8 mm eccentricity than in the periphery (14-20 mm).
Conclusions:
- Retinal photoreceptor density declines with age, with rods affected more than cones.
- Annual cell loss (0.2%-0.4%) is comparable to retinal ganglion and pigment epithelium cell loss.
- This age-related decline may contribute to decreased visual function and impact diseases in elderly patients.