We have demonstrated that a biomimetic substrate that recapitulates the mechanical stiffness and COL4 composition of Descemet's membrane is able to enhance the in vitro expansion of CECs. These expanded CECs can be cultured on an engineered basement membrane that closely resembles the portion of the cornea transplanted during a DSEK procedure. These results, suggest that it is feasible to expand CECs in vitro and bioengineer a DSEK mimic that could be used for corneal repair instead of transplantation. Future studies include testing the ability of the engineered CE to pump fluid in a modified Ussing Chamber and evaluating whether human CECs can be expanded with the same system to create clinical relevant, engineered human CEs.
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