Topical application of Cas9 ribonucleoproteins inhibits corneal neovascularization in a mouse model of alkali burn injury

The corneas transparency and avascularity are essential for maintaining normal vision. Corneal neovascularization CoNV characterized by the abnormal ingrowth of blood vessels into the cornea compromises visual clarity and can lead to corneal edema and opacification. An imbalance between pro and anti angiogenic factors particularly elevated vascular endothelial growth factor A VEGFA is a major contributor to CoNV. While anti VEGF therapies via intrastromal injection and direct ablation techniques such as laser thermal cauterization fine needle diathermy and photodynamic therapy are clinically used these approaches have notable limitations including incomplete vessel regression and frequent recurrence.