Posterior capsule opacification (PCO) is the most common complication of cataract surgery. It causes a gradual deterioration of visual acuity, which would otherwise improve after a successful procedure. Despite recent advances in ophthalmology, this complication has not been eradicated, and the incidence of PCO can be as high as 10%. This article reviews the literature concerning the pathomechanism of PCO and examines the biochemical pathways involved in its formation and methods to prevent this complication. We also review the reported tests performed in cell cultures under laboratory conditions and in experimental animal models and in ex vivo human lens capsules. Finally, we describe research involving human eyes in the clinical setting and pharmacological methods that may reduce the frequency of PCO. Due to the multifactorial etiology of PCO, in vitro studies make it possible to assess the factors contributing to its complications and search for new therapeutic targets. Not all pathways involved in cell proliferation, migration, and contraction of the lens capsule are reproducible in laboratory conditions; moreover, PCO in humans and laboratory animals may be additionally stimulated by various degrees of postoperative reactions depending on the course of surgery. Therefore, further studies are necessary.

Recently, the quest for novel glaucoma surgical techniques and devices has been underway. Trabeculectomy remains the gold standard, but it requires the implantation of glaucoma drainage devices and frequent follow-ups, and it also carries a high risk of serious complications. The need for less invasive and safer procedures has led to the development of minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS), particularly for patients with mild–to–moderate disease. Among them, minimally invasive bleb surgery seems to be effective in classical glaucoma surgery, while maintaining MIGS benefits. The relatively new PreserFlo^® MicroShunt (Santen, Osaka, Japan) is registered in Europe. It was released in 2019 for the treatment of patients with early–to–advanced open-angle glaucoma, where intraocular pressure (IOP) remains uncontrolled while on maximum tolerated medication and/or where glaucoma progression warrants surgery. This review focuses on the place of the PreserFlo MicroShunt, characterized by ab externo implantation, among MIGS procedures, discussing its advantages and disadvantages. The mechanisms of action, technical aspects, efficacy, and safety issues are summarized. The surgical technique, its efficacy, and safety profile are described, and directions for future studies are indicated. The PreserFlo MicroShunt ensures a high safety profile, minimal anatomical disruption, meaningful IOP-lowering effect, and ease of use for patients and physicians.

Myopia is a globally emerging issue, with multiple medical and socio-economic burdens and no well-established causal treatment thus far. A better insight into altered biochemical pathways and underlying pathogenesis might facilitate early diagnosis and treatment of myopia, ultimately leading to the development of more effective preventive and therapeutic measures. In this review, we summarize current data about the metabolomics and proteomics of myopia in humans and present various experimental approaches and animal models, along with their strengths and weaknesses. We also discuss the potential applicability of these findings to medical practice and suggest directions for future research.