eye_upper_slim part of part of epithelial cell conjunctival epithelial cell epithelial cell of conjunctiva FMA:70552 https://cellxgene.cziscience.com/cellguide/CL_1000432 An epithelial cell that is part of the conjunctiva. Conjunctival epithelial cells are located in the outermost layer of the conjunctiva, the transparent mucous membrane that covers the front surface of the eye (sclera) and lines the inside of the eyelids. Depending on the location, the conjunctival epithelium varies from a stratified squamous non-keratinizing epithelium (close to the lid margin) to a stratified columnar epithelium (bulbar). It consists of between two and seven layers of epithelial cells, which are organized into three main types: basal, intermediate and superficial; amongst them are goblet cells, which produce the mucous layer of the tear film, The conjunctival cells play a vital role in preserving the health and functionality of the eye, contributing significantly to ocular defense mechanisms. They also participate in maintaining the ocular surface's physiological environment. Specifically, conjunctival epithelial cells serve as a physical barrier against environmental threats, such as dust, allergens, and microbes. They prevent foreign bodies from entering the eye, thanks to their tightly packed arrangement, which is integral to the eye's first line of defense. Apart from this physical protection, these conjunctival epithelial cells are also involved in immune defense. They secrete microbicidal and immunomodulatory peptides and cytokines and can recognize and respond to pathogens through their Toll- and NOD-like receptor signaling pathways and modulate DC and lymphocyte function. Additionally, conjunctival goblet cells, assist in maintaining ocular surface moisture by secreting soluble mucins for tear film production, a thin fluid layer that keeps the cornea and conjunctiva moist. This tear film lubricates the eye, protects against infections, and ensures uninterrupted, clear vision. (This extended description was generated by ChatGPT and reviewed by the CellGuide team, who added references, and by the CL editors, who approved it for inclusion in CL. It may contain information that applies only to some subtypes and species, and so should not be considered definitional.) conjunctiva