title: Corneal transparency: genesis, maintenance and dysfunction.
abstract: Optimal vision is contingent upon transparency of the cornea. Corneal neovascularization, trauma and, surgical procedures such as photorefractive keratectomy and graft rejection after penetrating keratoplasty can lead to corneal opacification. In this article we identify the underlying basis of corneal transparency and factors that compromise the integrity of the cornea. With evidence from work on animal models and clinical studies, we explore the molecular mechanisms of both corneal avascularity and its dysfunction. We also seek to review therapeutic regimens that can safely salvage and restore corneal transparency.
authors.affiliation: Department of Ophthalmology, John Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City 84132, UT, USA. yureeda.qazi@hsc.utah.edu
authors.forename: Yureeda
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Qazi
authors.forename: Gilbert
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Wong
authors.forename: Bryan
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Monson
authors.forename: Jack
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Stringham
authors.forename: Balamurali K
authors.initials: BK
authors.lastname: Ambati
mesh_terms: D020533:Angiogenesis Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000818:Animals; D003315:Cornea / Q000187:drug effects / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery; D003316:Corneal Diseases / Q000628:therapy*; D016510:Corneal Neovascularization / Q000628:therapy; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D006801:Humans; D015948:Keratoplasty, Penetrating / Q000379:methods; D018903:Photorefractive Keratectomy / Q000379:methods
chemical_list: D020533:Angiogenesis Inhibitors