Neuronal Changes in the Diabetic Cornea: Perspectives for Neuroprotection

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neurology
• Diabetology

Background:

• Diabetic neuropathy is linked to skin and corneal neurotrophic ulcerations.
• Reduced corneal sensitivity and innervation impair wound healing, increasing risks of infections and vision loss.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent findings on impaired corneal innervation in diabetic patients.
• To explore the potential of corneal neuropathy as an early indicator of diabetic neuropathy.
• To present novel neuroprotective and regenerative therapies for diabetic keratopathy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on corneal innervation in diabetes.
• Analysis of findings related to corneal neuropathy as an early diagnostic marker.
• Examination of emerging therapeutic strategies for diabetic keratopathy.

Main Results:

• Evidence suggests impaired corneal innervation is common in diabetic individuals.
• Corneal neuropathy may serve as an early sign of systemic diabetic neuropathy.
• New therapeutic approaches show potential for neuroprotection and regeneration in diabetic corneas.

Conclusions:

• Corneal nerve assessment could aid in early diabetic neuropathy detection.
• Targeted therapies offer hope for managing and potentially reversing diabetic keratopathy.