Microstructured Collagen Films for 3D Corneal Stroma Modelling

Abstract

Abstract Corneal injury is a major cause for impaired vision around the globe. The fine structure of the corneal stroma plays a pivotal role in the phenotype and behaviour of the embedded cells during homeostasis and healing after trauma or infection. In order to study healing processes in the cornea, it is important to create culture systems that functionally mimic the natural environment as well as possible. In this study, we aimed to create a microstructured collagen film-based culture system that guides keratocytes (stromal cells) to their native, layerwise perpendicular orientation in 3D. By casting a micropattern (1,000 grooves/mm) on collagen vitrigels, we were able to make thin and transparent films that align cells along the grooves. The films provide an easily reproducible stroma model that maintains high cell viability and improves the preservation of the keratocyte phenotype in keratocytes that were subjected to fibroblast differentiation.