[Scanning electron microscopy of the zonula apparatus of higher primates. A further approach to a new theory of accommodation (author's transl)].

The architecture of the zonula apparatus of two species of monkeys is studied by scanning electron microscopy. Some specimens were treated with pilocarpine respectively atropine immediately before enucleation. The zonula consists of two functionally different groups of fiber strands, i.e. span and holding bundles (after Rohen and Rentsch), the course and structure of which is described in detail. After application of atropine the "holding bundles" appear to be stretched in the area between the ciliary processes and the lens, whereas after pilocarpine application they appear loose and irregularly arranged. Screw-like, spiral fiber strands were often seen in the scanning electron microscope. It is assumed that the spiral fibers develop in the stage of relaxation of the zonula apparatus.