No. The eyes are not unknown to the immune system. They have immune defenses, while specialized barriers and regulatory mechanisms help limit inflammation that could damage vision.
A 2023 study directly imaged immune cells in healthy human corneas, identifying resident T cells and patrolling macrophages. Research on the eye's anterior chamber also shows that material introduced there can be recognized by the systemic immune system.
The relevant concept is immune privilege: immune responses are carefully regulated in particular ocular tissues and compartments. It does not mean that the entire eye is isolated or that the immune system has never encountered it.
Immune privilege means regulated immune activity, not an eye hidden from the immune system.
Downie and colleagues, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Original research used dynamic imaging to identify resident T cells and other immune cells in healthy human corneas, directly contradicting the idea that the eyes lack immune surveillance.
Based on: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
American Academy of Ophthalmology, EyeWiki
The specialist overview explains that ocular barriers are not absolute and that systemic immunity can detect antigens introduced into the anterior chamber. Immune privilege includes active tolerance mechanisms.
Based on: American Academy of Ophthalmology
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