To
improve intraocular transparency of collagen matrices, hydroxypropyl
methylcellulose (HPMC) was introduced for the first time into cross-linked
collagen to form collagen–HPMC composite membranes. Light transmittance
and refractive indices of the membranes are enhanced by incorporation
of HPMC in comparison to the control of cross-linked collagen membranes.
Maximum light transmittance of the collagen–HPMC membrane was
up to 92%. In addition, their permeability of nutrients such as glucose,
tryptophan, and NaCl was superior or comparable to that of human corneas.
In vitro results demonstrated that the collagen–HPMC membrane
supported adhesion and proliferation of human corneal epithelial cells
(HCECs), showing good cytocompatibility to HCECs. The corneas maintained
a smooth surface and clear stroma postoperatively after 7 months of
implantation of collagen–HPMC membranes into the corneas of
rabbits. The good intraocular biocompatibility was verified by maintaining
a high optical clarity for over 6 months after transplantation. Hematoxylin
and eosin staining results showed the growth of stromal keratocytes
into the collagen–HPMC implants, indicating the ability of
the collagen–HPMC membrane to induce corneal cell regeneration.
Taken together, the collagen–HPMC membrane might be a promising
candidate for use in corneal repair and regeneration.
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