Objective To review the latest development of amniotic membrane andits application. Methods Related literatures on the development of amniotic membrane and its application were extensively reviewed and summarized. Results There were amniotic epithelial cells and many growth factors in the outer layer of amniotic membrane and there were many kinds of collagen in the basement. The special structure promoted the growth of many kinds of cells. It was widely used in ophthalmology. Conclusion As it is easily available, compatible, cheap in price, low in antigenicity, and able to promote the growth of many kinds of cells, with few ethical problems involved, amniotic membrane will be more and more widely applied.