A Decellularized Human Limbal Scaffold for Limbal Stem Cell Niche Reconstruction

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Regenerative Medicine
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Limbal epithelial progenitor cell (LEPC) transplantation is used for limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD).
• Current methods using amniotic membrane or fibrin gel have limited long-term success.
• A niche-specific scaffold may improve outcomes, especially in severe LSCD cases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate decellularized human limbus (DHL) as a biomimetic scaffold for LEPC transplantation.
• To assess the biocompatibility and regenerative potential of DHL scaffolds for LSCD treatment.

Main Methods:

• Corneoscleral tissue was decellularized using sodium deoxycholate and deoxyribonuclease I.
• Decellularization efficiency, ultrastructure, and ECM composition were analyzed.
• Scaffolds were recellularized in vitro with LEPCs and limbal melanocytes (LMs) and tested in ex vivo transplantation models.

Main Results:

• The decellularization protocol effectively removed cells while preserving ECM composition.
• DHL scaffolds showed good biocompatibility, supporting in vitro LEPC and LM growth and invasion.
• Ex vivo transplantation resulted in complete epithelialization and host-derived cell repopulation.

Conclusions:

• Decellularized human limbus (DHL) serves as a promising biomimetic scaffold for LEPC transplantation.
• DHL scaffolds demonstrate potential for improved corneal surface regeneration in LSCD patients.