Developing a Novel Platelet‐Rich Plasma‐Laden Bioadhesive Hydrogel Contact Lens for the Treatment of Ocular Surface Chemical Injuries

Abstract

AbstractPermanent injury to corneal limbal stem cells after ocular surface chemical and thermal injuries is a major cause of corneal blindness. In this study, a PRP‐laden GelMA hydrogel contact lens is manufactured which is aimed to support the limbal niche after ocular surface insults thereby preventing limbal stem cell failure. GelMA with varying platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) concentrations (5%, 10%, and 20%) is photopolymerized using a visible light crosslinking system followed by characterizations of mechanical properties, growth factor release, enzymatic degradation, and in vitro cytotoxicity. The addition of 10% PRP into 10% GelMA hydrogel precursor solution results in the highest tensile and compressive modulus (38 and 110 kPa, respectively) and burst pressure (251±37.66 mmHg). Degradation time varies according to the concentration of the collagenase enzyme tested (0, 2.5, 5, and 40 µg/mL) and is most prolonged with 20% PRP. EGF and TGF‐β release profiles suggest an initial burst release followed by sustained release, most consistent in the 10% PRP sample. Although cell viability decreases on day 1, rapid recovery is observed and is approximately 120% after day 21. PRP‐laden GelMA in the form of a contact lens may be a promising biomaterial‐based treatment approach for the maintenance of limbal epithelial stem cells after ocular surface insults.