Research progress on scleral remodeling in the prevention and control of myopia
10.3980/j.issn.1672-5123.2026.4.07
- VernacularTitle:巩膜重塑在近视防治中的研究进展
- Author:
Ruoshan GAO
1
;
Yue ZHU
1
;
Yueyao TANG
1
;
Xue LIU
1
;
Ruiping XIE
1
Author Information
1. College of Clinical Chinese Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou 730000, Gansu Province, China; Department of Ophthalmology, Affiliated Hospital of Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Lanzhou 730020, Gansu Province, China
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
scleral remodeling;
myopia;
cellular and molecular mechanisms;
signaling pathways
- From:
International Eye Science
2026;26(4):594-599
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
Myopia is a highly prevalent refractive error worldwide, with scleral remodeling accompanying excessive axial elongation being one of its core pathological features. As the crucial outer layer responsible for maintaining eyeball morphology and biomechanical stability, the sclera plays a decisive role in the pathogenesis and progression of myopia through abnormal alterations in its cellular components, extracellular matrix(ECM)metabolism, and regulatory networks. This review systematically summarizes recent research advances in scleral remodeling. It focuses on elucidating, from cellular and molecular perspectives, the mechanisms by which dysfunction of scleral fibroblasts, dysregulation of ECM metabolism(e.g., decreased collagen content, disrupted MMP-2/TIMP-2 balance), and complex regulatory networks involving multiple signaling pathways such as TGF-β, Wnt/β-catenin, and MAPK drive scleral thinning and reduced mechanical strength. Concurrently, the review provides a comprehensive analysis of the potential roles and existing controversies regarding factors like inflammatory responses and novel regulatory axes(e.g., FOXM1/METTL3/APOA1)in scleral remodeling. Furthermore, it discusses the current research status and application prospects of sclera-targeted intervention strategies(e.g., modulating specific pathways, supplementing exogenous factors), aiming to provide a theoretical basis and directional reference for a deeper understanding of myopia pathogenesis and the development of new prevention and treatment approaches.
