The fine structure of the choriocapillaris, Bruch's membrane and retinal epithelium was investigated by light and electron microscopy in both the tapetal and non-tapetal fundus of the domestic sheep. The choriocapillaries are heavily fenestrated on the side facing the retina. Overlying the tapetum, the choriocapillaris also displays fenestrae on the choroidal border. Bruch's membrane is pentalaminate throughout the retina and slightly thicker over the tapetal region. In all locations the retinal epithelium consists of a single layer of cells, which vary in height depending upon their location. The epithelial cells are joined laterally by apically located tight junctions and throughout the retina display numerous basal infoldings and apical processes which enclose rod outer segments. The epithelial cell nucleus is large and vesicular. All retinal epithelial cells are rich in smooth endoplasmic reticulum and phagosomes. Although not as abundant, mitochondria, Golgi zones, profiles of rough endoplasmic reticulum and polysomes are also noted in all locations. In non-tapetal areas, melanosomes are numerous whereas over the central tapetum fibrosum they are absent. While lysosomes are pressent throughout the epithelial layer, over the tapetal area they appear to be more numerous. The absence of melanosomes over a functional tapetum fibrosum is to be expected. The apparent increase in lysosomal numbers in this location may indicate an enhanced shedding of outer segment material over the tapetal region. Although some retinal epithelial cells are modified to accommodate a tapetum lucidum their morphology is basically similar throughout the retina and probably indicates that all regions of the retinal epithelium are capable of the normal functions of this indispensible retinal layer.
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