Which corneal layer is known for its rapid healing and lack of scarring?

The epithelium is the outermost layer of the cornea and is known for its remarkable ability to heal quickly following injury or abrasion. This rapid healing is attributed to the presence of mitotically active basal epithelial cells that can quickly proliferate to replace damaged or lost cells. The epithelial layer also has a natural barrier function, keeping the underlying layers protected from the external environment.

Moreover, the epithelium's healing processes do not typically result in scarring. Unlike other layers of the cornea, such as the stroma, where scarring can occur due to the fibrous nature of the tissue and the response to injury, the epithelial layer usually restores itself with normal, transparent tissue.

In contrast, while the endothelium has repair capabilities, it does not regenerate as swiftly as the epithelium, and when damaged, endothelial cells do not divide. Descemet's membrane is a thin layer that does not play a significant role in healing in the same way the epithelium does. The stroma, being the thickest layer of the cornea, is prone to scarring upon injury. Therefore, the epithelium stands out for both its rapid healing capability and its lack of scarring, solid