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Exosome-based therapies for corneal disorders: current status and future perspectives
Ningjing Tang1, Xiya Yin2, Andrew J W Huang3
1College of Medicine, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133000, China.
Medscience
|July 23, 2026
Summary
Exosomes show promise for treating corneal diseases like dry eye and ulcers by promoting healing and reducing inflammation. Further research is needed to standardize manufacturing and ensure clinical effectiveness.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Regenerative Medicine
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Exosomes are extracellular vesicles containing bioactive molecules.
- Corneal exosomes play roles in tissue homeostasis and disease progression.
- Current treatments for corneal disorders have limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the therapeutic potential of exosome-based therapies for corneal diseases.
- To discuss the biology, characteristics, and applications of corneal exosomes.
- To identify challenges and future directions for clinical translation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of preclinical and emerging clinical studies.
- Summary of exosome biology, isolation, characterization, engineering, and delivery.
- Evaluation of exosome therapeutic effects on corneal ulcers, dry eye disease, scarring, and dystrophies.
Main Results:
- Exosomes demonstrate preclinical efficacy in promoting corneal epithelial wound healing.
- Exosomes can modulate inflammation and fibrosis in corneal tissues.
- Emerging clinical studies are assessing the safety and feasibility of exosome therapy.
Conclusions:
- Exosome-based therapies offer significant promise for managing corneal diseases.
- Challenges in manufacturing standardization, quality control, and efficacy require further investigation.
- Optimizing exosome production, delivery, and engineering is crucial for clinical translation.
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