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Updated: May 16, 2026
Preparation of 3D Collagen Gels and Microchannels for the Study of 3D Interactions In Vivo
Published on: May 9, 2016
Effects of estrogen on collagen gel contraction by human retinal glial cells
Qing-hua Qiu1, Zhi-yi Chen, Li-li Yin
1Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
Background:
There are definite gender differences in patients with macular holes. Menopausal women over 50 years are most affected. We aimed to observe the effect of estrogen on collagen gel contraction by cultured human retinal glial cells. It is speculated that estrogen could strengthen the tensile stress of the macula by maintaining the correct morphology and contraction.
Methods:
Estrogen was used to determine its effects on collagen gel contraction, and its function was measured using morphological changes in cells. Human retinal glial cells were cultured in collagen solution. The cells were then exposed to collagen gels and the degree of contraction of the gel was determined.
Results:
Estrogen at differing concentrations had no effect on the growth of human retinal glial cells. However, after exposed to collagen gel block, less contraction was noted in the estrogen-treated group than in the control group.
Conclusions:
Estrogen can inhibit collagen gel contraction by glial cells. These results suggest a mechanism for macular hole formation, which is observed in menopausal females.
