EXTRACELLULAR-MATRIX AND GROWTH-FACTORS IN CORNEAL WOUND-HEALING

A smooth and intact corneal epithelium is essential for clear vision. Because the cornea is exposed to the external environment, it is vulnerable to various insults. To maintain the stratified smooth structure, the active and efficient mechanisms for the repair of epithelium are required. During the past decade, corneal surgeries such as keratoplasty and refractive surgery have been developed. To improve the surgical outcome, we need to understand the mechanisms of corneal epithelial wound healing. Recent advancements in cellular and molecular biology provide us with a new view of the mechanisms of corneal epithelial wound healing. This review summarizes the recent developments in corneal epithelial wound healing and the possible clinical implications for the treatment of various epithelial disorders.