Role of Immune Cell Diversity and Heterogeneity in Corneal Graft Survival: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Corneal transplantation is one of the most successful forms of solid organ transplantation; however, immune rejection is still a major cause of corneal graft failure. Both innate and adaptive immunity play a significant role in allograft tolerance. Therefore, immune cells, cytokines, and signal-transduction pathways are critical therapeutic targets. In this analysis, we aimed to review the current literature on various immunotherapeutic approaches for corneal-allograft rejection using the PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure. Retrievable data for meta-analysis were screened and assessed. The review, which evaluated multiple immunotherapeutic approaches to prevent corneal allograft rejection, showed extensive involvement of innate and adaptive immunity components. Understanding the contribution of this immune diversity to the ocular surface is critical for ensuring corneal allograft survival.

Automated summary

Corneal transplantation is a successful form of solid organ transplantation, but immune rejection remains a major cause of graft failure. Both innate and adaptive immunity play important roles in allograft tolerance, making immune cells, cytokines, and signal-transduction pathways critical targets for therapy. Various immunotherapeutic approaches have been evaluated to prevent corneal allograft rejection, highlighting the extensive involvement of innate and adaptive immunity components in ensuring graft survival.