What is the function of the zonules of Zinn?

The zonules of Zinn, also known as the zonular fibers or suspensory ligaments of the lens, serve an essential function in the eye by connecting the lens to the ciliary body. This connection is crucial for the process of accommodation, which is the ability of the eye to focus on objects at various distances.

When the ciliary muscles contract, they alter the tension on the zonules of Zinn, allowing the lens to change its shape—thickening for near vision and thinning for distance vision. This adjustment is vital for clear vision at different distances, making the zonules critical for proper visual function. Thus, the identification of this structure and understanding its role in linking the lens to the ciliary body is foundational in ocular anatomy and physiology.