Research progress in corneal neovascularization and microenvironment

In a variety of pathological conditions, capillaries grow from corneal limbus to the central cornea area, to form corneal neovascularization (CNV). CNV destroys the normal corneal microenvironment, reduces the transparency of cornea, seriously affects visual acuity and leads to corneal transplantation immune rejection. Corneal microenvironment includes inflammatory mediators, cytokines and extracellular matrix (ECM). Studies showed that corneal microenvironment changes have a close relationship with CNV. This article reviewed the relationship of corneal microenvironment with CNV. Key words: [Key words]Corneal neovascularization; Microenvironment; Extracellular matrix