Stem Cell Therapy Restores Transparency to Defective Murine Corneas

• DOI: 10.1002/stem.91
• Publication Date: 2009-04-10T01:19:02Z
• Authors: Yiqin Du; Eric C. Carlson; Martha L. Funderb...; David E. Birk; Eric Pearlman; Naxin Guo; Winston W.-Y. Kao; James L. Funderburgh
• Keywords: Lumican; Immune privilege; Cell therapy; Stem Cell Therapy

Abstract Corneal scarring from trauma and inflammation disrupts vision for millions worldwide, but corneal transplantation, the primary therapy blindness, is unavailable to many affected individuals. In this study, stem cells isolated adult human stroma were examined ability correct stromal opacity in a murine model by direct injection of into stroma. wild-type mice, injected remained viable months without fusing with host or eliciting an immune T-cell response. Human corneal-specific extracellular matrix, including proteoglycans lumican keratocan, accumulated treated corneas. Lumican-null mice have similar that scar tissue as result disruption collagen organization. After cells, thickness fibril defects these restored normal mice. transparency was indistinguishable These results support privilege cell regenerate manner analogous organogenesis clearly different wound healing. The suggest cell-based can be effective approach treatment blindness. Disclosure potential conflicts interest found at end article.