Corneal Epithelial Stem Cells-Physiology, Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Options

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Stem Cell Biology
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• The corneal epithelium's regeneration relies on the limbal stem cell reservoir.
• Damage to the limbus can cause limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD), leading to corneal opacification and vision loss.
• LSCD can be acquired (unilateral/bilateral) or inherited, impacting treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the physiology of corneal epithelium regeneration.
• To discuss the pathophysiology of limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD).
• To present current therapeutic options for LSCD.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on corneal epithelium physiology.
• Analysis of pathophysiology of LSCD from various causes (injury, disease).
• Compilation of established stem cell transplantation techniques for limbal restoration.

Main Results:

• Limbal stem cells are crucial for corneal epithelial maintenance and repair.
• LSCD results in severe visual impairment due to corneal changes.
• Various stem cell transplantation methods exist, including whole grafts, biopsies, and ex vivo-expanded cells.

Conclusions:

• Understanding limbal stem cell physiology and LSCD pathophysiology is key.
• Stem cell transplantation offers viable therapeutic strategies for vision restoration.
• Treatment choice depends on the nature and laterality of LSCD.