Advances in Corneal Endothelial Transplantation and Cell Regeneration

Corneal endothelial failure is a leading cause of corneal blindness globally. Traditional treatments like penetrating keratoplasty have been replaced by refined techniques such as Descemet’s Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) and Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSAEK). However, the limited availability of transplant-grade tissue has spurred interest in cell-based therapies and regenerative approaches. Emerging technologies, such as ROCK inhibitors, gene therapy, and in vitro cell expansion, are now being studied for their potential to revolutionise treatment and broaden access to care.

The treatment of corneal endothelial dysfunction has undergone a paradigm shift in recent decades, evolving from full-thickness corneal transplants to highly selective endothelial keratoplasty techniques. Despite these advances, global access remains limited due to donor tissue shortages and variable surgical expertise. This Research Topic aims to highlight innovations in corneal endothelial transplantation and regenerative strategies, including the use of cultivated endothelial cells, tissue engineering approaches, and pharmacologic modulation of endothelial repair. By compiling cutting-edge research and clinical insights, this collection seeks to provide a comprehensive overview of where the field stands and where it is heading, with the ultimate goal of improving outcomes and accessibility worldwide.

This Research Topic welcomes original research, reviews, case series, and perspectives focused on innovations in endothelial transplantation and regeneration. Themes of interest include but are not limited to: surgical techniques (DMEK, DSAEK, PDEK), donor tissue preparation and preservation, endothelial cell culture and injection therapy, ROCK inhibitor use, gene editing, biomaterials for tissue scaffolds, and global challenges in tissue availability. We also encourage submissions addressing translational barriers, safety considerations, and future directions. Contributions from basic science, clinical research, and translational efforts are all welcome.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Study Protocol
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: Corneal endothelium, endothelial keratoplasty, regenerative medicine, cell therapy, Descemet membrane, tissue engineering

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.