Emerging research encompasses a range of innovative approaches and interventions designed to enhance corneal wound healing and address associated complications. The discussed treatments, including applied insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) modRNA-engineered adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs
modIGF1),
24 extracellular vesicles derived from ADSCs (ADSC-EVs),
25 electrospun scaffolds functionalized with ROS-scavenging hydrogels (RH-ESs),
26 highly stable fibronectin-mimetic-peptide–based supramolecular hydrogels (Nap-FFPHSRN hydrogels),
27 and perfluorodecalin-based supersaturated oxygen emulsion (SSOE),
28 demonstrate significant potential in improving both the morphology and function of the cornea. For example, ADSC
modIGF1 treatment demonstrates remarkable advancements in corneal recovery, surpassing simple ADSCs and IGF-1 protein eyedrops, with positive impacts on epithelial, limbal, stromal, angiogenic, lymphangiogenic, and nerve repair aspects.
24 ADSC-EVs effectively promote diabetic corneal epithelial wound healing via the nerve growth factor (NGF)/TrkA pathway, particularly involving dendritic cells.
25 The application of RH-ESs in a rat corneal alkali burn model yields significant benefits, including reduced inflammation, downregulation of inflammation-related genes, suppression of vascularization and scarring, and accelerated corneal wound healing.
26 The Nap-FFPHSRN hydrogels, designed to mimic bioactive proteins, demonstrate prolonged precorneal retention and enhanced therapeutic effects, promoting corneal re-epithelialization in a scrape model.
27 Future research can explore the use of the aforementioned carriers to package and transport A68930, potentially developing eye drops with enhanced performance.