Type of collagen present in cornea ?
**Core Concept**
The cornea, a transparent avascular layer at the front of the eye, is composed of a unique combination of collagen types that provide its remarkable strength and clarity. Type I collagen, a fibrillar collagen, is the primary component of the cornea, comprising approximately 70-80% of its collagenous material.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Type I collagen is the correct answer because it is the primary collagen type found in the cornea, responsible for its mechanical strength and transparency. The corneal stroma, the thickest layer of the cornea, is composed mainly of Type I collagen fibers, which are arranged in a highly ordered manner to provide the cornea's remarkable optical clarity. The Type I collagen fibers in the cornea are also rich in glycine and hydroxyproline, which contribute to their strength and stability.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option B:** Type II collagen is primarily found in cartilaginous tissues, such as the intervertebral discs, and is not a major component of the cornea.
* **Option C:** Type III collagen is often associated with blood vessels and is not a primary component of the cornea.
* **Option D:** Type IV collagen is a component of basement membranes, such as the basement membrane of the corneal epithelium, but is not the primary collagen type in the cornea.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The cornea's unique composition of Type I collagen is essential for maintaining its transparency and mechanical strength. Damage to the corneal stroma, such as in keratoconus or corneal scarring, can lead to vision loss and require surgical intervention.
β Correct Answer: A. Type I