Organization of the rabbit vitreous body: lamellae, Cloquet's channel and a novel structure, the 'alae canalis Cloqueti'.

Even though the rabbit is a frequently used animal model for studies on vitreous function and pathobiology, data on the structural organization of the rabbit vitreous are scarce. The aim of the present study is to give a detailed description of rabbit vitreous structure in order to provide a basis for studies on changes in vitreous organization induced by pathophysiological processes. We studied the vitreous body of adult rabbit eyes by complementary anatomical evaluation methods, by light microscopy and by transmission electron microscopy. Regional and local variations in vitreous matrix organization were observed. Regionally, a cortex, an intermediate area, and a centre were distinguished. In addition, specific structures were locally observed. Lamellae run through the intermediate area in a funnel-like pattern, converging upon the asymmetrically positioned optic disc. A central channel (Cloquet's channel) was found in all eyes. We demonstrated a novel structure, attached to Cloquet's channel and to the medullary rays. Because of its wing-shaped sheet-like morphology, we named it the 'alae canalis Cloqueti'. Copyright 1999 Academic Press.