In Vitro Expansion of Corneal Endothelial Cells for Transplantation

The corneal endothelium forms a leaky barrier between the corneal stroma and the aqueous humor of the anterior chamber. This cell monolayer maintains the corneal stroma in a state of relative dehydration, a process called deturgescence, which is required in order to obtain corneal stromal transparency. Endothelial dysfunctions lead to visual impairment that ultimately can only be treated surgically via the corneal transplantation of a functional endothelium. Shortages of corneas suitable for transplantation has motivated research toward new alternatives involving in vitro corneal endothelial cell (CEC) expansion.This chapter describes current methods that allow isolate and culture CECs. In brief, Descemet membrane is peeled out of the cornea and digested in order to obtain CECs. Cells are then seeded and cultured.