Fine Structure of Descemet's Membrane

In a transverse section of the cornea, Descemet's membrane appears as a "glassy" layer between the stroma and the endothelium. I t has been identified as the basement membrane of the endothelium (1, 2), and is described as a strong, structureless membrane, very resistant to chemical agents and to pathological processes, several micra in thickness, and normally in a state of tension (3). During embryogenesis of the cornea, after the formation of the lens vesicle, mesodermal cells grow into the region between the lens and the surface ecto~ derm. They become arranged in a single layer, parallel to the surface, to form Descemet 's endothelium. I t is generally agreed that Descemet 's membrane is a product of the endothelial cells, being either directly secreted by them or else formed extracellularly from precursors activated by enzymes or other agents liberated by these cells. If Descemet 's membrane is injured, it is regenerated.