The fish scale‐derived Biocornea as a scaffold for human corneal cells

Abstract

AbstractPurpose Collagen matrices are a promising alternative for corneal donor transplants. Existing collagen matrices are synthesized or derived from animal corneas. We investigated whether fish scale‐derived collagen type I matrix could serve as a scaffold for in vitro corneal regeneration.Methods Primary human keratocytes were cultured for 2 weeks onto uncoated and collagen type IV coated scaffolds. Additionally a cell line of human corneal epithelial cells (HCEC) were co‐cultured with the scaffold. Cell morphology and tissue organization were assessed using fluorescence staining. Furthermore, epithelial morphogenesis, cell proliferation, cell infiltration and the effect of different protease treatments on scaffold permeability were analyzed as well.Results Keratocytes and HCECs cultured onto the micro‐patterned side covered the whole surface of the scaffold as well as keratocytes cultured onto the smooth side of the scaffold. No difference in cell attachment was observed between the uncoated and coated scaffolds. Cross sections showed no cellular infiltration into the scaffold. Dispase treatment separated the lamellae at the edges of the scaffold, but this did not induce cell penetration.Conclusion The fish scale‐derived scaffold is biocompatible with human corneal epithelial and stromal cells and could therefore be a promising non‐expensive basis for corneal regeneration. Additional stromal‐scaffold interaction and cell infiltration studies will be the focus of our research. Commercial interest