A bioequivalent cornea cross-linking method using photo-initiators LAP and visible light

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Ophthalmology
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Cell-encapsulating hydrogels are crucial for regenerative medicine, but clinical applications are limited.
• Current corneal cross-linking (CXL) using riboflavin/ultraviolet A (RF/UVA) can cause tissue damage, limiting its use in advanced cases with thin corneas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and evaluate a novel strategy for corneal cross-linking using lithium phenyl-2,4,6-trimethylbenzoylphosphinate (LAP) and visible light (VL).
• To compare the efficacy and safety of the LAP/VL protocol with the standard RF/UVA protocol for corneal stiffening.

Main Methods:

• Developed a new protocol utilizing LAP as a photo-initiator activated by visible light (VL) for corneal cross-linking.
• Assessed the effectiveness of the LAP/VL protocol in increasing corneal stiffness in porcine and rabbit corneas.
• Evaluated cell viability, wound healing, and cell repopulation post-cross-linking.

Main Results:

• The LAP/VL protocol demonstrated equivalent corneal stiffening efficiency compared to the RF/UVA protocol.
• Significantly minimized the loss of corneal endothelial and stromal cells.
• Accelerated epithelial wound healing and stromal cell repopulation.

Conclusions:

• The LAP/VL protocol is a safe and effective alternative for corneal cross-linking (CXL), particularly advantageous for treating thin corneas.
• This study expands the application of LAP, highlighting its potential for *in situ* cross-linking of natural extracellular matrices.