Advances in Ocular Surface Research: Exploring Antimicrobial Resistance and Emerging Therapeutics

Dear Colleagues,

Background and Rationale

The ocular surface, comprising the cornea, conjunctiva, tear film, and associated glands, plays a vital role in maintaining visual health and protecting the eye from microbial threats. However, the rise in antimicrobial resistance (AMR) presents a growing challenge for treating ocular infections such as keratitis, conjunctivitis, and blepharitis. As bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens develop resistance to conventional therapies, the burden of ocular surface disease increases, often leading to severe visual impairment or blindness in affected patients.

Despite advancements in ophthalmic care, there is a critical need to develop a deeper understanding of the interplay between the ocular surface microbiome, host immune response, and pathogen evolution in the context of AMR. Additionally, novel strategies, including the development of innovative antimicrobials, biofilm-targeting agents, and personalized medicine approaches, are promising for combating AMR-associated ocular infections.

This Special Issue aims to focus on the latest clinical and translational research addressing ocular surface disorders and antimicrobial resistance. By bringing together a diverse range of perspectives, this Special Issue aims to highlight emerging diagnostics, therapies, and preventive measures to improve patient outcomes.

Aims and Scope

This proposed Special Issue, entitled “Advances in Ocular Surface Research: Exploring Antimicrobial Resistance and Emerging Therapeutics”, seeks to achieve the following:

1. Understand the Scope of AMR in Ocular Surface Disorders:

Explore the prevalence and mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance in ocular pathogens, including bacterial, viral, and fungal species.

2. Examine the Role of the Ocular Microbiome:

Investigate the impact of microbial diversity, dysbiosis, and biofilm formation on ocular surface health and susceptibility to resistant infections.

3. Highlight Novel Diagnostics and Therapeutics:

Showcase advancements in rapid diagnostic technologies, novel antimicrobial agents, drug delivery systems, and personalized treatment strategies for ocular surface infections.

4. Assess Preventive Strategies:

Discuss the role of infection control measures, prophylactic interventions, and public health policies in mitigating the spread of AMR in ophthalmology.

5. Encourage Interdisciplinary Collaboration:

Foster dialogue between microbiologists, immunologists, pharmacologists, and clinicians to drive innovation in ocular surface and AMR research.

Potential Topics

This Special Issue welcomes contributions in the form of original research articles, systematic reviews, clinical studies, and meta-analyses. Key topics of interest include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Epidemiology of antimicrobial resistance in ocular infections;
• Mechanisms of resistance in bacterial, fungal, and viral ocular pathogens;
• Role of biofilms in ocular infections and their resistance patterns;
• Interactions between the ocular microbiome and immune responses;
• Novel antimicrobial agents and their efficacy against resistant strains;
• Innovations in drug delivery systems for treating ocular surface infections;
• Impact of AMR on surgical outcomes in ophthalmology;
• Strategies for antimicrobial stewardship in ophthalmic practice;
• Regulatory and public health perspectives on controlling AMR in eye care.

Dr. Francesco D'Oria
Prof. Dr. Giovanni Alessio
Dr. Maria Gabriella la Tegola
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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