The laboratory studies how the immune system and the nervous system interact within the eye, particularly in its exposed portion known as the ocular surface, which includes the cornea, conjunctiva, and the eyelids that protect them. This interaction is essential for maintaining the integrity of these ocular tissues and, consequently, for allowing light rays to be properly focused onto the retina to enable vision. Conversely, disruption of these mechanisms contributes to the development of diseases such as dry eye disease, ocular allergies, and various forms of chronic ocular inflammation.

Our work focuses on understanding how immune cells and corneal nerves communicate with each other at the ocular surface. We have demonstrated that certain inflammatory responses can damage corneal nerves and alter their function, leading to symptoms such as pain, irritation, light sensitivity, and persistent ocular discomfort. We also investigate how specific neural signals can amplify ocular inflammation and thereby promote the development of corneal neuropathy, defined as structural and/or functional abnormalities of corneal nerve fibers. Another major research interest of the laboratory is ocular surface immune tolerance, a concept encompassing the mechanisms that normally prevent excessive inflammatory responses against the external environment. In this context, we investigate how environmental stress, ocular dryness, and preservatives commonly present in ophthalmic eye drops can disrupt this balance and trigger ocular surface disease. The laboratory also works on the development and evaluation of new therapeutic strategies aimed at protecting the ocular surface, reducing inflammation, and promoting corneal nerve regeneration. These approaches include immunomodulatory therapies, neuroprotective compounds, and ophthalmic formulations designed to reduce the toxicity associated with topical treatments. More recently, we have begun investigating whether alterations in corneal nerves could serve as early biomarkers of neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases, taking advantage of the fact that the cornea is one of the most densely innervated and easily accessible tissues in the human body.

To address these questions, we use experimental models, cell culture systems, and molecular and transcriptomic analysis tools, combining both basic and translational research approaches. In addition, we conduct clinical and epidemiological studies on dry eye disease and the environmental factors associated with its onset and progression. Overall, the goal of the laboratory is to better understand the biological mechanisms that maintain ocular surface health and to translate this knowledge into new diagnostic and therapeutic tools for ophthalmological, neurological, and systemic diseases.