Limbal stem cells (LSCs) are essential for the integrity and transparency of the cornea,because they provide new epithelial cells whatever physiological state and wound healing condition.Specific characterization and isolation of LSCs will greatly contribute to a deep exploration about their biological nature and application in the treatment of LSCs deficiency.Since varieties of molecular markers and general properties of LSCs have been identified SO far and are diverse in their specificity for LSCs,it is important for US tO learn the unique characteristics of each and further to understand and manipulate them in a more efficient way.This article aimed to review the identification of LSCs based on molecular marker and general properties of limbal stem cells and summarize the techniques for purlfying these cells.