From nano to macro: Studying the hierarchical structure of the corneal extracellular matrix

摘要: In this review, we discuss current methods for studying ocular extracellular matrix (ECM) assembly from the 'nano' to 'macro' levels of hierarchical organization. Since collagen is major structural protein in eye, providing mechanical strength and controlling shape, presented focus on understanding molecular at nanometre level using X-ray scattering through millimetre centimetre non-linear optical (NLO) imaging second harmonic generated (SHG) signals. Three-dimensional analysis ECM structure also discussed, including electron tomography, serial block face scanning microscopy (SBF-SEM) digital image reconstruction. Techniques detect non-collagenous components are presented, these include immunoelectron staining with cationic dyes. Together, various approaches new insights into blueprint ECM, particular that cornea, which impacts upon our control corneal pathogenic mechanisms underlying ectatic disorders cornea potential tissue engineering.