Abstract
The cornea, transparent and outermost structure of camera-type eyes, is prone to environmental challenges, but has remarkable wound healing capabilities which enables to preserve vision. The manner in which cell plasticity impacts wound healing remains to be determined. In this study, we report rapid wound closure after zebrafish corneal epithelium abrasion. Furthermore, by investigating the cellular and molecular events taking place during corneal epithelial closure, we show the induction of a bilateral response to a unilateral wound. Our transcriptomic results, together with our TGF-beta receptor inhibition experiments, demonstrate conclusively the crucial role of TGF-beta signaling in corneal wound healing. Finally, our results on Pax6 expression and bilateral wound healing, demonstrate the decisive impact of epithelial cell plasticity on the pace of healing. Altogether, our study describes terminally differentiated cell competencies in the healing of an injured cornea. These findings will enhance the translation of research on cell plasticity to organ regeneration.
Highlights
The cornea, transparent and outermost structure of camera-type eyes, is prone to environmental challenges, but has remarkable wound healing capabilities which enables to preserve vision
We have previously shown that in mice the mechanical abrasion leads to a full removal of epithelial cells at the wound site, with no obvious impact on the underlying stroma (Fig. S1)
To explain this rapid reaction, we investigated the mechanisms involved during corneal wound closure
Summary
The cornea, transparent and outermost structure of camera-type eyes, is prone to environmental challenges, but has remarkable wound healing capabilities which enables to preserve vision. Our study describes terminally differentiated cell competencies in the healing of an injured cornea. The main innovation of this eye type was the generation of the lens and cornea Both structures are transparent and of ectodermal origin. Corneal abrasions are very common, and lead to a remarkable influx of patients in emergency room[4] These abrasions are often caused by small foreign objects, such as dust, sand or other blowing debris, that can induce a scratch on the corneal epithelium. We have shown as well that tear composition is quickly modified following corneal injury, to support corneal healing[10] These changes in the corneal microenvironment, are crucial for proper wound closure, by supplying a new combination of factors via the tears when necessary
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