The role of ABCB5-expressing mesenchymal stem cells in pterygium pathogenesis

• Applicants: Professor Dr. Claus Cursiefen; Maria Notara, Ph.D.
• Subject Area: Ophthalmology
• Term: since 2023
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 518068480

The cornea is our window to the world. While normally avascular and transparent ocular pathologies, including pterygium (a UV-induced fibrovascular tumor advancing on the cornea), can cause vascularisation and opacification, impairing vision. While pterygium can be surgically treated, its recurrence rates remain unacceptably high, causing patient discomfort and burdening the healthcare system. We have identified a population of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) that express the protein ABCB5 in the pterygium stroma. In this study, we aim to investigate their role in pterygium onset and progression. Elucidation of the (lymphatic) angiogenic and inflammatory effects of ABCB5-positive PMSC and eventually their pharmaceutical targeting will contribute to the development of new therapeutic strategies against pterygium progression and recurrence.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants