Poly-ε-lysine based hydrogels as synthetic substrates for the expansion of corneal endothelial cells for transplantation.

摘要: Dysfunction of the corneal endothelium (CE) resulting from progressive cell loss leads to oedema and significant visual impairment. Current treatments rely upon donor allogeneic tissue replace damaged CE. A cornea shortage necessitates development biomaterials, enabling in vitro expansion endothelial cells (CECs). This study investigated use a synthetic peptide hydrogel using poly-e-lysine (peK), cross-linked with octanedioic-acid as potential substrate for CECs CE grafts. PeK properties were optimised produce which was thin, transparent, porous robust. human line (HCEC-12) attached grew on peK hydrogels confluent monolayers after 7 days, whereas primary porcine (pCECs) detached hydrogel. Pre-adsorption collagen I, IV fibronectin increased pCEC adhesion at 24 h formed days. Minimal observed pre-adsorbed laminin, chondroitin sulphate or commercial FNC coating mix (fibronectin, albumin). Functionalisation binding H-Gly-Gly-Arg-Gly-Asp-Gly-Gly-OH (RGD) α2β1 integrin recognition sequence H-Asp-Gly-Glu-Ala-OH (DGEA) resulted enhanced RGD only. pCECs grown culture 5 weeks showed zonula occludins 1 staining tight junctions expression sodium-potassium adenosine triphosphase, suggesting functional These results demonstrate can be tailored through covalent provide surface CEC attachment growth. Thus, providing therapeutic application allogenic replacement