A Transparent and Biomimetic Full-Thickness Corneal Model

The realization of a fully bioengineered, functional corneal tissue is challenging. The development of full-thickness corneal models requires appropriate material fabrication methods as well as cell culture protocols. Here we describe the construction of a full-thickness corneal model (FCM) using electro-compacted (EC) collagen films. EC collagen films support primary human corneal epithelial cell (hCEpiC) stratification, guide primary human corneal stromal cell (hCSC) orientation and maintain primary human corneal endothelial cell (hCEndC) growth and confluence. Using fibrinogen as a tissue adhesive we assembled all three layers to produce a full-thickness corneal construct with structural integrity. Importantly, the FCM is highly transparent and glucose-permeable. Moreover, we utilised a co-culture medium to support the viability of all cell types within the construct. This advanced FCM provides a new biomimetic in vitro system, as a representative of a physiologically relevant and complex structure.