A New Bioprinted Dual-Layered Corneal Structure Using Collagen-Based Bioinks.

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Tissue Engineering
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• Current bioengineered corneal models often lack anatomical curvature and native extracellular matrix (ECM) composition.
• This limits their utility for studying critical aspects like graft integration and stromal-endothelial cell interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a physiologically relevant, anatomically curved, dual-layer bioengineered corneal construct.
• To create a platform for studying corneal stromal-endothelial interactions and evaluating graft integration.

Main Methods:

• Developed a bioprinted, dual-layer corneal model using corneal stromal cells in type I collagen (Col-I) and corneal endothelial cells on collagen type IV (Col-IV).
• Utilized a curved support to replicate native corneal curvature and employed ECM-specific, human-derived collagen bioinks.
• Assessed cell viability, endothelial layer formation, histological and immunofluorescence characteristics, curvature retention, transparency, and interfacial integrity over 3 weeks.

Main Results:

• Achieved high cell viability (>90%) and formation of a continuous endothelial layer.
• Confirmed distinct layering, appropriate cellular morphology, and correct phenotypic marker expression for both cell types.
• The construct maintained curvature, transparency, and integrity for 3 weeks and adhered to ex vivo corneal tissue.

Conclusions:

• The developed bioprinted corneal construct is anatomically curved and multilayered, offering a physiologically relevant in vitro model.
• This model provides a valuable platform for advancing corneal tissue engineering research, particularly for investigating stromal-endothelial architecture and cell interactions.