Simulated Model of Eye’s 3D Structure Facilitates Stem Cells Transplant

Newswise — Orlando, Fla. — Scientists have developed a model that mimics the complex structure of the cornea to enable the transplant of healthy corneal stem cells. The research is being presented at the 2014 Annual Meeting of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) this week in Orlando Fla.

Used to restore sight, corneal stem cells live in a specific physical environment. Transplanting these stem cells requires accurate mimicry of their natural surroundings during transport. In this work, vision scientists have recreated the 3D architecture where corneal stem cells naturally reside.

The cornea is the transparent window at the front of the eye. When the outermost cell layer of the cornea is damaged, vision is severely impaired. Treatment can include a transplant of healthy corneal stem cells to replace the lost cells.

Abstract Title: Tissue engineering the human limbal crypts: further characterization of an in vitro modelPresentation Start/End Time: Monday, May 5, 3:45 – 4pmLocation: S 331A-DSession Number: 271

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The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) is the largest eye and vision research organization in the world. Members include some 11,500 eye and vision researchers from over 70 countries. ARVO encourages and assists research, training, publication and knowledge-sharing in vision and ophthalmology.

All abstracts accepted for presentation at the ARVO Annual Meeting represent previously unpublished data and conclusions. This research may be proprietary or may have been submitted for journal publication. Embargo policy: Journalists must seek approval from the presenter(s) before reporting data from paper or poster presentations. Press releases or stories on information presented at the ARVO Annual Meeting may not be released or published until the conclusion of the presentation.

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