Ocular Neuroimmunology

Ocular surface neuroimmunology

We study how the immune system and the sensory nervous system interact at the ocular surface to maintain tissue homeostasis, and how disruption of this interaction contributes to the development of chronic inflammatory diseases. Our work has demonstrated that adaptive immune responses, particularly those mediated by CD4+ Th1 T lymphocytes, can induce damage to corneal nerve fibers and alter the sensory function of the ocular surface. In addition, we investigate neuroinflammatory circuits mediated by TRPV1, substance P, and other neurogenic signals that amplify local inflammation and trigeminal neuroinflammation, thereby promoting corneal neuropathy and ocular surface pathology.

Mucosal immune tolerance and ocular diseases

This was the first research line established by our group, initiated in 2010 at the National Academy of Medicine in Buenos Aires, and focuses on the mechanisms of mucosal immune tolerance in the conjunctiva. We investigate how environmental stress, tear hyperosmolarity, and preservatives present in ophthalmic eye drops can disrupt mucosal tolerance and initiate inflammatory processes that favor the development of ocular allergy and dry eye disease. These studies have helped define the ocular surface as an active and highly regulated immune site that shares many of the principles observed in other mucosal linings, where the epithelium plays a key role in controlling the local immune response.

Mechanisms of corneal nerve damage and regeneration

We investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating axonal damage and regeneration of corneal nerves in inflammatory and toxic settings. This includes the study of pathways related to TRPV1, neuroinflammation, epithelial-derived mediators, and toxicity induced by ophthalmic preservatives. We also evaluate therapeutic strategies aimed at promoting neuroprotection and corneal reinnervation, including epithelial-protective agents and immunomodulatory therapies.

Experimental models and translational therapies in ocular surface disease

The laboratory develops and uses murine models and in vitro systems to study ocular surface diseases and evaluate potential therapeutic interventions. These include NF-κB modulators, TRPV1 agonists and antagonists, and formulations designed to reduce the epithelial toxicity of ophthalmic eye drops and restore neuroimmune homeostasis. Our goal is to generate knowledge with potential clinical applications in inflammatory and neurodegenerative disorders affecting the ocular surface.

Epidemiology and environmental factors in dry eye disease

We conduct epidemiological and clinical studies aimed at identifying environmental, climatic, and population-related risk factors associated with dry eye disease. This research line integrates basic and clinical research approaches to understand how external variables, including temperature, humidity, and environmental exposure, influence the pathophysiology and prevalence of these diseases across different populations.

Ocular biomarkers of neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration

More recently, the laboratory has begun investigating the potential of corneal nerve alterations as early biomarkers of neurodegenerative and neuroinflammatory diseases. This line of research seeks to integrate neuroimmunology tools, transcriptomic analysis, and non-invasive evaluation of corneal nerve fibers to study shared mechanisms between the ocular surface and central nervous system pathology.