Spontaneously arising cell line of rat pigment epithelial cells （RPE） named BPEI-1 with RPE-specific features.The pigmented layer of retina or retinal pigment epithelium （RPE） is a monolayer of pigmented cells situated between the neuroretina and the choroids. There are a few main functions of the RPE, including transport of nutrients, absorption of light, phagocytosis of shed photoreceptor membranes, and secretion of essential factors for the structural integrity of the retina. Research has shown that the RPE is where macular degeneration begins.
