Research progress on the immune mechanism of corneal neovascularization

Authors:Liu Mengxin, Yan Chunxiao,Zhang Lijun

Corresponding author: Zhang Lijun, Email: lijunzhangw@sina.com

Published:2026-07-10

DOI:10.3760/cma.j.cn115989-20240923-00266

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ABSTRACT 

Corneal neovascularization (CNV) is a common pathological change in many eye diseases, such as infections, inflammation, hypoxia, degeneration, and trauma, which can cause serious visual impairment. Inflammation is the core mechanism of CNV, and various immune cells (macrophages, neutrophils, T cells, and antigen-presenting cells) participate in this process, among which macrophages play an indispensable role in CNV. Firstly, the secretion of angiogenic factors (vascular endothelial growth factor, fibroblast growth factor), pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-8), integrins, and chemokines promotes endothelial cell proliferation and migration to regulate angiogenesis and remodeling. Then, collagen-degrading enzymes and matrix metalloproteinases are secreted to degrade the surrounding matrix and provide space for neovascularization. Finally, macrophages secrete transforming growth factor-β to promote vascular maturation and stability. This article provides the latest systematic discussion on the immune physiology of the healthy cornea and the immune mechanisms related to CNV, providing ideas for the pathogenesis research and clinical treatment of CNV.

KEYWORDS：

Corneal neovascularization;Immune cells;Macrophages;Neutrophils;Corneal immunophysiology

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All articles published represent the opinions of the authors, and do not reflect the official policy of the Chinese Medical Association or the Editorial Board, unless this is clearly specified.

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Authors Info & Affiliations 

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References click to collapse

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