In vivo evaluation of a novel scaffold for artificial corneas prepared by using ultrahigh hydrostatic pressure to decellularize porcine corneas

PURPOSE: To evaluate the stability and biocompatibility of artificial corneal stroma that was prepared by using ultrahigh hydrostatic pressurization treatment to decellularize corneas. METHODS: The porcine cornea was decellularized by two methods, a detergent method and an ultrahigh hydrostatic pressure (UHP) method. Either 1% w/v Triton® X-100 or sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) was used for the detergent method, and 10,000 atmospheres (atm; 7.6×10(6) mmHg) was applied to the cornea for 10 min at 10 °C by a high-pressure machine for the UHP method. Hematoxylin-eosin staining was performed to confirm the removal of the corneal cells, and then decellularized porcine corneal stroma was implanted into rabbit corneal pockets. After eight weeks, the rabbit eyes were enucleated to examine the tissue compatibility of the implanted stroma. RESULTS: Complete decellularization was confirmed only in corneas treated by the UHP method, and little inflammation was seen when they were implanted into the rabbit corneal pockets. CONCLUSIONS: Porcine corneal stroma completely decellularized by the UHP method has extremely high biocompatibility and is a possible corneal scaffold for an artificial cornea.