Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is a multi\|functional cytokine which belongs to the interleukin\|6 family, and is widely expressed in animal and human tissues. In the nerve system, LIF is reported to be involved in many physiological and pathological processes. In the eyes, the protective role played by LIF in the optic nerve, the neuro\|retina and cornea has reported with increasing evidence. In glaucomatous eyes, by activating JAK/STAT3 pathway, LIF protects the optic nerve against injury and promotes the axon regeneration of the nerve. In eyes with age\|related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa, LIF inhibits the death of the photoreceptors and maintains the function of them by the pathways related. In addition, LIF promotes the regeneration of the nerves in the cornea in case of injury. The neuroprotective role played by LIF in the eye suggests its potential clinical application in the treatment in the future. (Int Rev Ophthalmol, 2016, 40: 375-379)