Ocular surface proliferative disorders are a significant area of ​​concern in ophthalmology, characterized by unregulated tissue growth that can lead to partial or total vision loss. These dysfunctions encompass a range of pathologies, including fibrosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), hyperplasia, and neoplastic growth. Fibrosis, often resulting from chronic wound repair processes, involves the transformation of local epithelial cells or the migration of fibrotic cells, leading to excessive extracellular matrix deposition. Pterygium, a common benign condition, is associated with UV exposure, but its genetic basis remains unclear. In addition, ocular surface squamous neoplasia (OSSN) and other rare tumors show supraproliferative neoplastic lesions. Despite the diversity of these conditions, they share common mechanisms such as EMT and fibroblast proliferation. However, the distinct and common cellular events, environmental and genetic factors, and biochemical mechanisms that contribute to these pathologies are not fully understood, highlighting the need for further investigation.

This research topic aims to collect articles on proliferative changes of the ocular surface, focusing on new pathological mechanisms from an epidemiological, genetic, biochemical and molecular perspective. In addition, we aim to include emerging prevention and treatment strategies. We will consider articles focusing on pterygium, pinguecula, fibrosis, and EMT caused by epithelial and stromal corneal scarring, as well as corneal endothelial damage, ocular surface squamous neoplasia, and other ocular surface cancers. Several questions regarding these eye diseases remain unresolved and more studies are needed to gain a better understanding and develop innovative and personalized therapies.

To gather more information on proliferative ocular surface disorders, we welcome Brief Research Report, Clinical Trial, Mini Review, Original Research, Practice Reviews, Review and Systematic Review articles that address, but are not limited to, the following topics:

• Novel molecular and genetic mechanisms underlying ocular surface pathologies
• The role of environmental factors, such as UV exposure, in disease progression
• Comparative studies on EMT in fibrosis and cancer
• Advances in diagnostic techniques for the early detection of ocular surface neoplasia
• Innovative therapeutic approaches and personalized medicine strategies
• Epidemiological studies on the prevalence and risk factors of these conditions
• Impact of fibroblast proliferation and extracellular matrix deposition on disease development