The role of lipids in corneal diseases and dystrophies: a systematic review

Abstract

Corneal diseases are an extensive cause of blindness worldwide and continue to persist as a challenging public health concern. Recently, various lipid‐based therapies have been advocated for the modulation of corneal diseases; however, the number of studies is still very limited. Here we focus on developments and challenges on lipid‐based therapies for dry eye disease, diabetic neuropathy, and Fuchs’ endothelial corneal dystrophy. All three diseases are highly prevalent conditions and involve corneal stress and inflammation. Lipid‐based therapeutics discussed includes cyclooxygenase inhibitors, essential fatty acids, and resolvin analogs. Lipids also show increasing promise as biomarkers of disease and are explored in this review.