What is the correct healing sequence for a mild corneal abrasion?

The healing sequence for a mild corneal abrasion begins with the basal cells flattening and spreading to quickly cover the wound site. This initial step is critical as it helps to close the defect and initiate the healing process. Following this, mitosis of the surrounding epithelial cells occurs to replenish the lost cells and restore the epithelial layer.

After cell proliferation, the attachment via fibronectin occurs, which is essential for stabilizing the new cells and ensuring their integration into the existing corneal structure. Finally, hemidesmosome formation takes place, which helps anchor these newly migrated cells to the underlying basement membrane, thus restoring the integrity and function of the corneal epithelium.

Understanding this sequence highlights the biological processes that contribute to rapid healing after corneal injuries and the roles that different cell types and molecules play in this recovery.