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The cytoskeletal architecture can be studied using different microscopic and biochemical techniques. Electron microscopy was instrumental in discovering the cytoskeletal architecture around the 1960s, which allowed obtaining structural information at a high-resolution level. However, the sample preparation procedure often limits this ability in biological samples. Several protocols have been developed over the years to optimize sample preparation. In one of the protocols known as rotary...
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Related Experiment Video

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Full-Field Optical Coherence Microscopy for Histology-Like Analysis of Stromal Features in Corneal Grafts
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Corneal stroma microfibrils.

Samuel D Hanlon1, Ali R Behzad2, Lynn Y Sakai3

  • 1College of Optometry, University of Houston, Houston, TX, 97204, USA.

Experimental Eye Research
|January 24, 2015
PubMed
Summary

Elastic tissue, specifically elastin-free microfibril bundles (EFMBs), are present in adult corneas, challenging previous assumptions. These findings may enhance understanding of corneal biomechanics and repair.

Keywords:
CorneaElastic tissueFibrillinMicrofibrilsOxytalan

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Corneal Tissue Engineering: An In Vitro Model of the Stromal-nerve Interactions of the Human Cornea
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Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Biomaterials Science
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Elastic tissue, crucial for mechanical properties, comprises elastin and microfibrils.
  • Elastin-free microfibril bundles (EFMBs) provide structural support and are involved in cell signaling.
  • EFMBs are found in ocular structures like ciliary zonules but their presence in adult corneas is debated.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the presence and characteristics of elastic tissue, specifically EFMBs, in adult mammalian corneas.
  • To re-evaluate the composition of corneal stroma regarding elastic fibers.
  • To contribute to understanding corneal biomechanical properties and repair mechanisms.

Main Methods:

  • Serial-block-face scanning electron microscopy for 3D reconstruction of corneal elements.
  • Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to analyze fiber structure and composition.
  • Immunogold labeling to identify fibrillin in microfibrils.

Main Results:

  • Extensive networks of fibers, appearing as electron-dense patches in sections, were identified throughout adult murine corneas.
  • TEM revealed these structures are composed of ∼10 nm diameter fibrils.
  • Immunogold and TEM confirmed these fibrils are fibrillin-containing EFMBs, present in adult mammals of several species.

Conclusions:

  • Elastin-free microfibril bundles (EFMBs) are present in adult corneas, contrary to prior beliefs.
  • The identification of EFMBs in adult corneas necessitates further research into their role in corneal biomechanics and healing.
  • This discovery opens new avenues for understanding and potentially improving corneal tissue repair.