The vertebrate eye forms through the invagination of the optic vesicle allowing the neural retina and retinal pigmented epithelium (RPE)/choroid to come into direct apposition in a bi-layered “optic cup.” This sets the stage for a variety of fascinating collaborations between the two layers in the embryonic and adult retina, ranging from developmental interactions (e.g., cellular induction), physiological processes (e.g., vitamin A cycle, retinal adhesion), and pathological states (including degenerations and retinal detachment).

Our laboratory is broadly interested in the retina-RPE/choroid as a model of cell-cell interactions mediated through extracellular matrices. In fact, there are few places in the body as well suited to study such interactions. Consider that the interphotoreceptor matrix (IPM), which fills the subretinal space, is sandwiched between the neural retina and apical RPE surface. In turn, the basal RPE contacts Bruch’s membrane (a complex matrix formed by the basement membranes of the RPE and choroidal capillaries). Unlike other CNS matrices, the IPM and Bruch’s membrane can be readily isolated.