Colonizing Corneal Healing

Genetically engineered ocular bacteria accelerates corneal wound healing by colonizing the eye and secreting interleukin-10

April 17, 2026
3 min

The Ophthalmologist

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A novel treatment for corneal injury has been developed, leveraging genetically engineered bacteria that colonize the eye to deliver anti-inflammatory therapy directly to the ocular surface. Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine modified Corynebacterium mastitidis to secrete interleukin-10 (IL-10), enhancing corneal epithelial repair in mouse models. This innovative approach aims to maintain therapeutic effects longer than traditional eye drops, suggesting potential applications for various ocular surface disorders if successfully translated to humans.