What are the pectinate ligaments?

• A. Fibers that connect the base of the iris to inner peripheral cornea
• B. Structures that regulate aqueous production
• C. The canal of Schlemm
• D. The scleral spur

Answer: (A)

Pectinate ligaments are radiating fibrous strands in the iridocorneal angle that connect the base of the iris to the inner peripheral cornea. They form a lattice of connective tissue that helps hold the iris root in place against the cornea and contribute to the structural framework of the filtration angle, supporting the trabecular meshwork where aqueous humor drains. They do not regulate aqueous production (that’s done by the ciliary body), nor are they the canal of Schlemm or the scleral spur. Recognizing them as iris-to-cornea connective strands explains why they’re described as part of the angle’s supporting architecture and why the correct description matches option describing fibers linking the iris base to the inner cornea.