What is the only part of the body with no blood supply? Answer
What is the only part of the body with no blood supply? Answer
The only part of the body without blood supply is Cornea.
The cornea is the transparent, dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye, playing a crucial role in focusing vision. What makes the cornea unique is that it is the only part of the human body that has no blood supply. Instead, it gets its oxygen and nutrients directly from the tear fluid on the outside and the aqueous humor inside the eye.
This avascular nature of the cornea is essential for maintaining its clarity and transparency, which are vital for vision. Blood vessels would obstruct the passage of light and interfere with the cornea’s ability to refract light accurately onto the retina. The absence of blood vessels in the cornea is a fascinating adaptation that ensures the light entering the eye remains unobstructed, allowing for clear and sharp vision.
Because it lacks a blood supply, the cornea relies heavily on a complex system of cells and structures to remain healthy. The outermost layer, the epithelium, acts as a barrier to protect against dust, bacteria, and other harmful particles. Below this, the stroma, which makes up about 90% of the cornea’s thickness, provides structural support. The innermost layer, the endothelium, helps regulate fluid and keeps the cornea clear by pumping out excess water.
Injuries to the cornea can be particularly concerning due to its lack of blood vessels. Healing can be slower and more complicated compared to other tissues, and serious damage might require medical interventions such as corneal transplants. Despite these challenges, the cornea’s unique structure is a remarkable example of how the human body has evolved specialized features to optimize function—in this case, ensuring we have the best possible vision.