Human Corneal Epithelial Cell

Human corneal epithelial cells are the outermost cell layer of the human cornea, forming a critical barrier that protects the eye from environmental insults and pathogens. These cells play essential roles in maintaining corneal transparency, supporting wound healing, and contributing to ocular surface homeostasis. Renewal is governed by limbal stem cells located at the periphery (limbus) of the cornea, migrating centrally to replenish lost or damaged epithelial cells. The epithelium consists of basal, wing, and superficial squamous cell layers sitting atop a specialized basement membrane. Key markers include cytokeratin 3/12, PAX6, ABCG2, and integrins α9/β1. Dysfunction can lead to impaired vision, making these cells important models for studying wound healing, drug toxicity, and gene regulation in ocular health.

Other names

Corneal Epithelial CellHCECCorneal Epithelium