Epiretinal membrane and internal limiting membrane (ERM/ILM)

The epiretinal membrane (ERM) and internal limiting membrane (ILM) are structural components of the vitreoretinal interface in the human eye. The ILM is a true basement membrane, primarily composed of collagen type IV, laminin, and fibronectin, which serves as the boundary between the retina and the vitreous body [1]. The ERM is a pathological, fibrocellular tissue that proliferates on the inner surface of the ILM, often resulting from posterior vitreous detachment or inflammatory processes [2]. These structures are not traditional molecular targets like receptors or enzymes; instead, they are physical targets for surgical removal, known as membrane peeling, to treat conditions such as macular puckers and macular holes [3]. Pharmacological intervention is limited, though the proteolytic enzyme ocriplasmin is used to dissolve protein links at this interface to treat vitreomacular traction [4]. Surgical visualization of these thin, transparent membranes is often enhanced using vital dyes like Brilliant Blue G or Indocyanine Green, which selectively bind to the membrane components [5]. Understanding the mechanical and biochemical properties of these membranes is crucial for improving outcomes in vitreoretinal surgery and developing non-invasive therapies for tractional maculopathies.

Other names

Macular puckerCellophane maculopathyPreretinal macular fibrosisInner limiting membraneVitreoretinal interfaceRetinal gliosis

Proteolytic degradation of laminin and fibronectin at the vitreoretinal interface (Ocriplasmin); Selective staining and visualization for surgical removal (Vital dyes)