A rabbit model of deep alkaline-induced corneal burn was used to study the involvement of the local renin-angiotensin system of the eye in the development of an inflammatory process and wound healing. Corneal burn injury was shown to cause a significant increase in the activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in the tear and internal ocular tissue structures, promoting their microcirculatory disorders and inflammation development. The local use of ACE inhibitors as instillations substantially reduces an inflammatory reaction and the incidence of deep and extensive corneal ulcers. The study performed provides experimental rationale for the local use of ACE inhibitors for the treatment of inflammatory processes in the eye.