Hydrogels derived from collagen-based decellularized porcine corneal tissue containing gold nanoparticles as biosynthetic corneas

The growing global demand for corneal transplants remains unmet due to the persistent shortage of human donor tissue. Biosynthetic corneas based on hydrogels derived from decellularized porcine corneal extracellular matrix have emerged as a promising alternative, as this material preserves native extracellular matrix components. Despite these advantages, previous studies have indicated the need to further improve the mechanical performance and structural stability of these biomaterials. Therefore, the present study investigated the effects of incorporating gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on the mechanical, optical, cytocompatibility, and anti-angiogenic properties of corneal hydrogels derived from decellularized porcine tissue. Citrate-stabilized AuNPs with an average diameter of approximately 30 nm were incorporated into the hydrogel matrix at concentrations of 25, 50, and 75 ppm. Dynamic mechanical analysis revealed a concentration-dependent increase in Young's modulus, with HEDS75 showing an approximately 75% increase relative to the AuNP-free hydrogel at 10 Hz. Cell viability assays demonstrated that AuNP incorporation at the tested concentrations did not induce cytotoxic effects in human dermal fibroblasts after 24 h of exposure. The chorioallantoic membrane assay showed a progressive inhibitory effect on blood vessel formation as AuNP concentration increased, with vascular area reductions reaching approximately 70% and significant decreases in the number of vascular junctions at the highest AuNP concentrations. Notably, free AuNPs at 400 μg/mL produced anti-angiogenic effects comparable to those of bevacizumab at 250 μg/mL. Although light transmittance decreased near the characteristic AuNP plasmon absorption band, at approximately 530 nm, all biosynthetic corneas maintained transmittance values above 70% throughout the visible spectrum.