The mTOR signalling in corneal diseases: A recent update

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Molecular Biology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Corneal diseases impact millions globally, causing vision impairment and blindness.
• Current treatments have limitations, necessitating novel therapeutic approaches.
• Understanding corneal disease pathogenesis, including injury and healing responses, is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling in corneal diseases.
• To explore the therapeutic potential of inhibiting mTOR for treating corneal conditions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on mTOR function in corneal disease pathogenesis.
• Analysis of studies investigating mTOR inhibition with rapamycin.
• Examination of mTOR's role in cellular processes like growth, metabolism, and immune response within the cornea.

Main Results:

• mTOR signaling is extensively involved in the pathogenesis of various corneal diseases.
• Inhibition of mTOR using rapamycin demonstrates promising therapeutic outcomes.
• mTOR regulates key aspects of corneal healing, including epithelial renewal, inflammation, fibrosis, and neovascularization.

Conclusions:

• mTOR is a critical regulator in corneal disease development.
• Targeting mTOR with drugs like rapamycin represents a viable therapeutic strategy.
• Further research into mTOR-targeted therapies could lead to improved treatments for corneal diseases.