Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 8, 2026
08:10
Comparable Decellularization of Fetal and Adult Cardiac Tissue Explants as 3D-like Platforms for In Vitro Studies
Published on: March 21, 2019
Unlocking the surgical potential of Descemet's membrane: a standardized decellularization protocol
Stefania D'Agostino1, Elena Daniele2, Diego Ponzin2
1Fondazione Banca Degli Occhi del Veneto ETS, Venice, Italy. stefania.dagostino@fbov.it.
Cell and Tissue Banking
|January 22, 2026
Summary
A new protocol effectively removes DNA from Descemet
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
Background:
- Descemet's membrane is a crucial extracellular matrix supporting corneal endothelium.
- Its properties make it an ideal scaffold for cell growth.
- Current limitations in donor tissue utilization exist.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel decellularization protocol for Descemet's membrane.
- To create an acellular scaffold suitable for intraocular surgery.
- To assess the safety and efficacy of the decellularization process.
Main Methods:
- Donor corneas were processed using osmotic (hypotonic) shock for cell lysis.
- Decellularization efficiency was measured by DNA quantification and gel electrophoresis.
- Extracellular matrix integrity was confirmed via histological analysis, assessing collagen, glycoproteins, perlecan, and elastin.
Main Results:
- Achieved a 99% reduction in residual DNA, leaving only 28.9 ± 9.86 ng DNA/mg dry tissue.
- Histological analysis confirmed the preservation of key extracellular matrix components.
- The protocol effectively removed cellular material while maintaining scaffold integrity.
Conclusions:
- The developed decellularization protocol effectively removes donor DNA from Descemet's membrane.
- The process preserves essential matrix components, creating a safe and viable scaffold.
- Decellularized Descemet's membrane is a promising candidate for intraocular applications, including macular hole treatment.
