Hybrid superporous scaffolds: an application for cornea tissue engineering

Abstract

Engineering a cell-based keratoprosthesis often requires a struggle between two essential parameters: natural 3-D biological adhesion and mechanical strength. A novel hybrid scaffold of natural and synthetic materials was engineered to achieve both cell adhesion and implantable strength. This scaffold was characterized in terms of cell adhesion, cell migration, swelling, and strength. While the study was focused on engineering a biointegrable prosthetic skirt, a clear central core with an appropriate refractive index and light transmission was also incorporated into the design for potential functionality. The hybrid scaffold was tested in rat corneas. This uniquely designed scaffold was well tolerated and encouraged host cell migration into the implant. The hybrid superporous design also enhanced cell adhesion and retention in a superporous scaffold without altering the bulk mechanical properties of the hydrogel.