What type of epithelium covers the anterior surface of the cornea?

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Multiple Choice

What type of epithelium covers the anterior surface of the cornea?

Explanation:
The anterior surface of the cornea is covered by nonkeratinized stratified squamous epithelium. This multi-layered, moist, nonkeratinizing surface provides abrasion resistance while staying optically transparent and allowing tear film and oxygen to diffuse to underlying tissues. Keratinized epithelium would introduce a keratin layer that scatters light and reduces transparency, which would impair vision. The corneal epithelium comprises basal cells that divide, with wing cells and superficial squamous cells on top, all without keratin on the surface, supporting a smooth, clear optical surface essential for vision.

The anterior surface of the cornea is covered by nonkeratinized stratified squamous epithelium. This multi-layered, moist, nonkeratinizing surface provides abrasion resistance while staying optically transparent and allowing tear film and oxygen to diffuse to underlying tissues. Keratinized epithelium would introduce a keratin layer that scatters light and reduces transparency, which would impair vision. The corneal epithelium comprises basal cells that divide, with wing cells and superficial squamous cells on top, all without keratin on the surface, supporting a smooth, clear optical surface essential for vision.

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