Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
The Unappreciated Eye

This image depicts an immunohistochemical staining of the mouse Retinal Pigmented Epithelium (RPE), a single layer of tissue that plays a critical role in vision. The RPE supports photoreceptors by enabling them to convert light into electrical impulses, which the brain interprets as sight. Despite its often underappreciated role, the vast complexities of this tissue are not only visually captivating but may also be central to our understanding of visual disorders and diseases. Unlocking the secrets of the RPE could be key to advancing treatments for conditions like macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa, making this delicate layer an essential focus in the study of ocular health.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 03.2024
Date Uploaded: 10.2024
Photo Location: Aurora, Colorado, United States of America
Copyright: © Timothy Domashevich