Abstract: The inventors have found that VCP inhibitors protect corneal endothelial cells and corneal epithelial cells. Accordingly, the disclosure provides a composition for protecting a cornea comprising a compound of formula (I) or an ester, oxide, pharmaceutically acceptable salt or solvate thereof. In another aspect the disclosure provides a composition for treating and/or preventing a corneal disease comprising a compound of formula (I). In a further aspect the disclosure provides a composition for ocular irrigation comprising a compound of formula (I). In a still further aspect the disclosure provides a composition for preserving a corneal graft comprising a compound of formula (I).