Ocular immunology investigates the complex interplay between molecular mediators and immune cells responsible for maintaining ocular immune privilege, as well as the disruptions that lead to inflammation and autoimmunity.

Recent studies have underscored the significance of intraocular molecules, most notably various receptors and their ligands, in the modulation of immune responses within the eye. An example is the melanocortin system, particularly the roles of melanocortin receptors MC1r and MC5r, which have emerged as crucial modulators in experimental autoimmune uveitis and other ocular inflammatory conditions.

While the field has made considerable strides in understanding the molecular underpinnings of ocular immune homeostasis, important gaps persist regarding how specific receptor-mediated signaling pathways translate to therapeutic benefit, the nuances of agonist selectivity and safety, and their implications not only for the eye but also for systemic autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases.

This Research Topic aims to elucidate the receptor-specific pathways that govern intraocular immune regulation, clarify unresolved questions about the mechanisms underlying immune modulation, and critically assess the translational potential of new strategies targeting these pathways. It seeks to bridge foundational studies with groundbreaking advances, with a focus on how targeted manipulation of these molecules can preserve tissue integrity, dampen pathogenic inflammation, and foster immune tolerance in ocular and systemic settings. Key objectives include examining selective agonists, their safety profiles, and unraveling ongoing debates about their mode of action, as well as advancing understanding toward clinical application.

The scope of this Research Topic is centered on the investigation of intraocular molecules and receptors, with an emphasis on their contribution to immune regulation in both ocular autoimmune and related systemic diseases. Submissions are encouraged that encompass experimental, translational, and clinical research. To gather further insights into immune modulation and ocular immune privilege, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

o Molecular mechanisms underlying ocular immune privilege
o Roles of melanocortin and other G protein-coupled receptors in retinal inflammation
o Receptor-specific modulation of intraocular immune responses and inflammation such as in uveitis, keratitis, autoimmune retinopathies, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
o The impact of systemic noninfectious inflammatory diseases (e.g., spondyloarthropathies, lupus, sarcoidosis, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's syndrome, multiple sclerosis) on ocular health and immune responses
o Translational and therapeutic advances for ocular and systemic autoimmune inflammation & targeted modulation of intraocular immune pathways: selectivity, efficacy, and safety
o Crosstalk and interactions between ocular and systemic immune mechanisms
o Clinical perspectives on immune modulation in autoimmune and autoinflammatory conditions

Appendix: We welcome original research articles, reviews, brief reports, case reports, clinical trials, and perspectives relevant to the themes described.
Submissions with non-immune focus are out of the scope of the journal.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Immune Cell Fate Decisions in Ocular Immune Privilege: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications