Abstract
AbstractBioengineered substitutes for corneal extracellular matrix based on crosslinked collagen promote nerve regeneration. Electrophysiological recording of corneal nerves at different time points after implant showed no electrical activity inside the implant 1 day‐2 months after surgery. Active mechano‐ and polymodal nerve terminals showing increased spontaneous activity in absence of intended stimulation were recorded inside the implants at 3 months. At 8 months after the implant, active mechano‐ and polymodal nociceptors, and cold thermoreceptors with normal response to natural stimulation were recorded at the implant area. Spontaneous firing of nociceptive units was higher and spontaneous activity of cold thermoreceptive units was slightly lower than in intact eyes. Corneal nerves regenerate into collagen‐based materials, starting to be functional at 3 months post surgery. This is on the basis of the recovery of corneal sensitivity with time in transplanted corneas. The altered activity observed in regenerating corneal nerves is probably due to an increased expression of ion channels induced after nerve lesion, and may explain the presence of abnormal sensations experienced by patients after keratoplasty. (SAF2011‐22500 MINECO)
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