Ciliary zonule

The ciliary zonule (a.k.a. the zonule of Zinn) is a circumferential system of fine fibrillin rich fibres that connects the ciliary body to the lens capsule. These individual microfibrillar fibres (a.k.a. the zonular fibres), when grouped together, are collectively referred to as the ciliary zonule.

Attachments

The ciliary zonule is attached:

• Proximally to the nonpigmented epithelium of the ciliary body and ciliary processes, and

• Distally to the lens capsule around the equator of the lens.

Functions

• Suspends and stabilizes the lens

• Transmits tension from the ciliary muscle to alter lens shape during accommodation

• Maintains optical alignment of the lens