Corneal Lymphangiogenesis: Current Pathophysiological Understandings and Its Functional Role in Ocular Surface Disease |
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Authors: | Hyung-Keun Lee Sang-Mok Lee Dong-Ihll Lee |
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Affiliation: | 1.Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Vision Research, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 06273, Korea;2.Department of Ophthalmology, HanGil Eye Hospital, Catholic Kwandong University College of Medicine, Incheon 21388, Korea;3.Medical School, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China; |
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Abstract: | The cornea is a transparent and avascular tissue that plays a central role in light refraction and provides a physical barrier to the external environment. Corneal avascularity is a unique histological feature that distinguishes it from the other parts of the body. Functionally, corneal immune privilege critically relies on corneal avascularity. Corneal lymphangiogenesis is now recognized as a general pathological feature in many pathologies, including dry eye disease (DED), corneal allograft rejection, ocular allergy, bacterial and viral keratitis, and transient corneal edema. Currently, sizable data from clinical and basic research have accumulated on the pathogenesis and functional role of ocular lymphangiogenesis. However, because of the invisibility of lymphatic vessels, ocular lymphangiogenesis has not been studied as much as hemangiogenesis. We reviewed the basic mechanisms of lymphangiogenesis and summarized recent advances in the pathogenesis of ocular lymphangiogenesis, focusing on corneal allograft rejection and DED. In addition, we discuss future directions for lymphangiogenesis research. |
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Keywords: | lymphangiogenesis allograft rejection dry eye disease lymphatic endothelium vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) |
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