When limbal epithelial SC or their supporting stromal environment-known as niche-is destroyed or becomes dysfunctional, a state known as limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD) becomes manifest (also reviewed in Grueterich et al 16). 14, 15 (5) Destruction of the limbal region has catastrophic consequences for the central cornea wound healing and anatomy. 2, 9, 10, 11 (4) A deficiency in corneal healing is observed when the limbal area is partially 12, 13 or totally destroyed. 8 (3) These cells have a superior proliferative capacity under both in vivo and in vitro conditions. 6, 7 (2) Epithelial neoplasias are commonly located in the limbal area. 1, 2 The existence of these limbal epithelial SC is supported by the following five well-established facts: (1) These cells do not express such corneal epithelial differentiation markers as keratin 3, 1 keratin 12, 3, 4, 5 and connexin 43. The maintenance of a healthy functional corneal epithelium under both normal and stress conditions is provided by a particular and unique subpopulation of stem cells (SC) located in the limbal region.
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