IrisStroma

Irisstroma is a term used in optical science and ophthalmology to describe the innermost, pigmented layer of the iris, the colored part of the eye. This stroma is composed of connective tissue, fibroblasts, melanocytes (cells responsible for pigment production), and blood vessels. The arrangement and density of melanocytes within the iris stroma largely determine an individual's eye color. Eyes with a high concentration of melanin appear brown, while those with less melanin and more collagen and elastic fibers appear blue or green due to light scattering.

The iris stroma plays a crucial role in regulating the amount of light entering the eye by controlling the size of the pupil. This is achieved through the action of two muscles within the iris: the dilator pupillae and the sphincter pupillae. The stroma also provides structural support to the iris and contains nerves that contribute to pupil reflexes. Inflammation of the iris stroma, known as iritis or anterior uveitis, can lead to pain, light sensitivity, and blurred vision, and is often associated with systemic inflammatory conditions. Understanding the composition and function of the iris stroma is vital for diagnosing and managing various eye diseases.