< Back to previous page

Project

Tissue engineering for conjunctival reconstruction: Introducing selfassembled collagen-like-peptide scaffolds for the expansion of human conjunctival-derived cells in a xeno-free and serum-free environment.

The human eye is a unique, biological complex but vulnerable entity. It lacks protection of keratinized epithelium against infection and desiccation, as seen in almost every other area of the body. However, the ocular surface is specialised to protect the ocular structures and respond rapidly upon injury, while maintaining a smooth refractive surface to ensure visual acuity. One of the specialised cellular layers contributing to ocular tissue homeostasis is the conjunctiva. This thin mucous membrane belongs to the ocular surface epithelia, covering the sclera and the inside of the eyelids. In some ocular disorders, the conjunctiva is damaged, resulting in extensive scarring and inflammation, which can lead to several pathological conditions such as eyelid distortions, tear film disruptions, severe dry eyes, corneal ulcers and eventually blindness. The management of severe conjunctival surface disorders remains challenging for ophthalmologists worldwide. The conventional treatment comprises the surgical excision of the diseased conjunctiva. Normal wound healing post resection is based on epithelial migration from adjacent healthy conjunctiva to the wounded area. However, this healing process cannot take place in patients lacking sufficient healthy residual conjunctiva. Here, fibrosis and scar formation will occur, often reintroducing several pathological conditions as described above. Hence to avoid sequelae, the ocular surface requires reconstruction post excision using a cellularized conjunctival substitute. In this project, we aim to meet this unmet medical need by creating a cellularized conjunctival substitute for reconstructive surgery. By introducing fully synthetic self-assembling collagen-like-peptide hydrogels as carrier for human conjunctival-derived cells and eliminating all animal-derived components, we aim to provide a safe, consistent and functional conjunctival replacement. The graft's functionality will be tested in vitro by means of specifically designed tests for presence of conjunctival epithelial cells (barrier formation against infectious microbes), mucin-producing goblet cells (tear film stabilization) and stem cells (epithelium renewal).
Date:1 Oct 2019 →  31 Jan 2022
Keywords:OPHTHALMIC DRUGS
Disciplines:Ophthalmology
Project type:Collaboration project