Sclera

The sclera is the opaque, fibrous, protective outer layer of the human eye, consisting mainly of collagen and elastic fibers (StatPearls, 2023). It maintains the shape of the eyeball, protects internal structures, and serves as an attachment point for the extraocular muscles (Wikipedia, 2024). While not a single molecular target, the sclera is a critical site for inflammatory diseases like scleritis and plays a major role in the development of myopia through tissue remodeling (PubMed, 2012). Pharmacological interventions often focus on modulating the extracellular matrix or suppressing immune-mediated inflammation within this tissue using corticosteroids or immunosuppressants (AAO, 2023). Furthermore, the sclera acts as a significant barrier and pathway for transscleral drug delivery to the posterior segment of the eye (NIH, 2018). In conditions like glaucoma, the mechanical properties and stiffness of the sclera are also of therapeutic interest as they influence the health of the optic nerve head (PubMed, 2015). Therapeutic strategies targeting the sclera aim to preserve its structural integrity and prevent complications such as scleromalacia or pathological axial elongation (StatPearls, 2023).

Other names

Scleral tissueWhite of the eyeScleral stromaTunica fibrosa oculi

Pharmacological agents typically target the underlying inflammatory pathways within the sclera, such as inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes or blocking tumor necrosis factor (TNF) signaling, to prevent tissue destruction and remodeling (StatPearls, 2023).