Layer-Specific Proteomic Profiling of the Human Cornea Reveals Insights Into Structure and Biological Function

Area of Science:

• Proteomics
• Ophthalmology
• Human Anatomy

Background:

• Understanding corneal protein distribution is crucial for biological and pathological insights.
• Current knowledge lacks a spatial model of the human corneal proteome.
• Proteomics offers a powerful tool to investigate tissue-specific functions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a spatial model of the human corneal proteome.
• To identify and localize protein clusters within different corneal layers.
• To understand the functional specialization of corneal segments.

Main Methods:

• Human corneal tissues from five donors were sectioned using laser ablation.
• Optical coherence tomography verified ablation depth.
• Quantitative proteomics via LC-MS/MS analyzed each layer to create a proteomic map.

Main Results:

• 4,454 proteins were identified, showing distinct layer-specific clusters.
• The epithelium showed high metabolic and regenerative proteins.
• The endothelium displayed high energy and transmembrane proteins; the stroma had immune proteins.
• The subepithelial region showed a unique profile linked to wound healing.

Conclusions:

• Corneal layers exhibit proteomic differentiation and functional specialization.
• Insights into immune responses, wound healing, and homeostasis were gained.
• Findings can inform studies on pathological conditions and drug target localization.