Pay attention to the effect of keratocyte / 中华实验眼科杂志

ABSTRACT

Keratocytes situated between the collagen lamellae in the corneal stroma,are mitotically quiescent cells.The cells can secrete collagens and keratan sulfate proteoglycans which contribute to the transparency of the cornea.Upon injury,keratocytes are stimulated to corrent apoptosis and transite into repair phenotypes,fibroblast and myofibroblast.These repair phenotypes can either promote regeneration or induce fibrotic scar,and the latter is detrimental to the otherwise transparent cornea.Moreover,a population of keratocytes can be induced to appear the stem cell-like characteristics.Therefore,keratocytes are no longer bystanders,but active participants in numerous functions.