The Evolving Therapeutics of Endothelial Disease

Abstract

Endothelial dysfunction is one of the leading indications for corneal transplantation. Globally, there is a shortage of donor corneas, which is partly because of the lack of eye banking resources in emerging countries. Given this global shortage, there is naturally heightened interest surrounding pharmacological agents, genetic therapy, and endothelial cell–based therapeutic modalities. Endothelial cells have limited mitotic capacity in vivo, and thus, studies have been conducted for their ex vivo expansion using mitogens. Similarly, pluripotent stem cells have been used to differentiate into human corneal endothelial cells with varying degrees of success. Different strategies have also been developed for injecting and delivering these cells into the human eye. This review aims to compile the information published on the latest advances in endothelial disease therapy.