Corneal stromal collagen fiber

Corneal stromal collagen fibers are highly organized structural proteins predominantly composed of type I collagen, with additional contributions from types V, VI, XII, XIII, XIV, and XXIV collagen[1][5]. These fibers are assembled into narrow, uniform-diameter fibrils (∼30–31 nm), which are precisely arranged in parallel, superimposed lamellae throughout the corneal stroma[2][5]. The ordered architecture, aided by proteoglycans that maintain inter-fibrillar spacing, is essential for corneal transparency and refractive function[1][4]. Collagen fibers provide the main mechanical strength of the cornea and their organization is critical for both shape and optical properties. Disruption or alteration of the normal collagen fiber structure leads to loss of transparency and corneal diseases such as keratoconus, dystrophies, or opacity[6]. While not considered a drug target in the traditional sense (i.e., not a receptor, enzyme, or transporter), corneal stromal collagen fibers are a focus for research on tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and interventions such as corneal cross-linking.

Other names

Corneal collagen fiberCollagen fibril of corneal stromaCorneal collagen fibril