Mesenchymal stem cells for regeneration of the ocular surface

Abstract

Mesenchymal tissues can provide a source of stem cells (MSCs) that are readily available, non-immunogenic, and have tremendous regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties. For these reasons, MSCs have emerged as very attractive candidates for cell-based therapies in numerous and diverse clinical applications including the treatment of ocular surface diseases such as limbal stem cell deficiency, dry eye disease, or even as a potential therapy to improve corneal allograft survival. Although some of the current preclinical evidence has already been successfully translated into clinical applications, work must continue to overcome all of the scientific and technical challenges that remain unsolved. This book chapter summarizes the main preclinical and clinical evidence that strongly supports MSC-based therapies as safe and effective treatments for the regeneration of the ocular surface.