Advanced Biomaterials for Lacrimal Tissue Engineering: A Review

The lacrimal gland (LG) is vital for ocular health, producing tears that lubricate and protect the eye. Dysfunction of the LG leads to aqueous-deficient dry eye disease (DED), significantly impacting quality of life. Current treatments mainly address symptoms rather than the underlying LG dysfunction, highlighting the need for regenerative therapies. Tissue engineering offers a promising solution, with biomaterials playing crucial roles in scaffolding and supporting cell growth for LG regeneration. This review focuses on recent advances in biomaterials used for tissue engineering of the lacrimal gland. We discuss both natural and synthetic biomaterials that mimic the extracellular matrix and provide structural support for cell proliferation and differentiation. Natural biomaterials, such as Matrigel, decellularized extracellular matrices, chitosan, silk fibroin hydrogels, and human amniotic membrane are evaluated for their biocompatibility and ability to support lacrimal gland cells. Synthetic biomaterials, like polyethersulfone, polyesters, and biodegradable polymers (PLLA and PLGA), are assessed for their mechanical properties and potential to create scaffolds that replicate the complex architecture of the LG. We also explore the integration of growth factors and stem cells with these biomaterials to enhance tissue regeneration. Challenges such as achieving proper vascularization, innervation, and long-term functionality of engineered tissues are discussed. Advances in 3D bioprinting and scaffold fabrication techniques are highlighted as promising avenues to overcome current limitations.