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Published on: September 12, 2014
Corneal Epithelial Tissue Engineering Strategy Based on Cell Viability Optimization: A Review and Prospects
Guoguo Tang1,2, Miaomiao Chi1,2, Yang Zhai1,2
1Department of Ophthalmology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.
Abstract:
Corneal transplantation is often considered the last resort for severe corneal epithelial disorders, especially limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). Tissue engineering offers novel strategies to mitigate the shortage of corneal transplant donors. However, low cell viability and compromised functionality in tissue engineering represent a major challenge. In this review, we describe the key characteristics required for corneal epithelium bioscaffolds. We summarize the research progress centered on optimizing cell activity and functionality in the past 10 years from four key perspectives: the sourcing of cells, seed cell pretreatments, biomaterial optimization, and engineered culture system innovation. The sources, isolation, and induction methods of seed cells are described, and the advantages and disadvantages of existing clinical treatment methods are compared. Furthermore, we compare existing clinical therapies and summarize promising seed cell pretreatment strategies for the first time. Several innovative engineered cell culture systems are exhibited as well. We demonstrated how to preserve cell viability through bioscaffold stiffness modulation, topographic design, and application of innovative fabrication techniques. Finally, we propose a personalized and precise regeneration strategy based on high-resolution images, digital modeling, bioprinting, and machine learning.
Insights
Tissue engineering advances corneal regeneration for limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). This review details optimizing cell viability and function in bioscaffolds for improved corneal transplantation outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology and Regenerative Medicine
- Biomaterials Science and Tissue Engineering
Background:
- Corneal transplantation is a last resort for severe corneal epithelial disorders like limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD).
- Tissue engineering offers alternatives to donor scarcity but faces challenges in cell viability and functionality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review key characteristics of corneal epithelium bioscaffolds.
- To summarize research progress in optimizing cell activity and functionality over the past decade.
- To explore innovative strategies for personalized corneal regeneration.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of cell sourcing, isolation, and induction methods.
- Comparison of existing clinical therapies and novel seed cell pretreatment strategies.
- Review of engineered cell culture systems, including bioscaffold stiffness modulation, topographic design, and fabrication techniques.
Main Results:
- Identified key perspectives for optimizing cell activity: cell sourcing, seed cell pretreatments, biomaterial optimization, and engineered culture systems.
- Demonstrated methods to preserve cell viability through bioscaffold design and fabrication.
- Highlighted innovative engineered cell culture systems and pretreatment strategies.
Conclusions:
- Optimizing cell viability and functionality in corneal bioscaffolds is crucial for effective tissue engineering.
- Personalized regeneration strategies integrating imaging, digital modeling, bioprinting, and machine learning show significant promise.
- Advances in tissue engineering offer a promising future for treating corneal epithelial disorders.
