AIM: To observe the expression of bone morphogenetic protein 7(BMP-7)during corneal wound healing in rats, and to discuss the effects of BMP-7 on corneal wound healing.

METHODS: Totally 42 male Wistar rats were divided into seven groups, six rats in each group and one of the groups as control group. The experimental groups were made into cornea model by needle puncture at their corneas of right eyes. The corneas were surgically removed at six different time points(6h, 1d, 3d, 5d, 7d, 14d)after operation. The localization and expression of BMP-7 was determined by immunohistochemical methods and computer image analysis.

RESULTS: The expression of BMP-7 of experimental groups gradually rose on the 1^st day and 3^rd day in the injured corneal epithelium after operation and significant difference(P< 0.05). Then it decreased gradually on the 5^th day. And it reached the normal level on the 14^th day.

CONCLUSION: BMP-7 is expressed in cornea of rats and may play a negative role on corneal wound healing after injury.