engleski

Subconjuctival application of allogenic limbal cells in dogs with corneal disorders

Limbal stem cells play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of corneal surface in healthy states or after injury through corneal renewal and repair. In pathologic conditions these cells could be replenished with cultivated allogenic limbal cells. In current investigation, limbal stem cells from small fragments of donor tissue were cultivated in vitro for treatment of corneal lesions in dogs. Fourteen dogs were divided in two groups of seven animals: a group of dogs with corneal lesions cured with classical veterinary ophthalmology approach and a group of dogs with corneal lesions treated with the application of cultivated allogenic limbal cells. Regardless of the size and location of the corneal lesions, ten days after cell applications, ophthalmological examination has shown 80% less severe symptoms of blepharospasm, 85% less secretion, 43% less observable conjunctival congestion, 31% less corneal edema and 55% less irritation, as compared to dogs treated with classical ophthalmology approach, with no signs of eye liquor dimming or adhesions. After application of cultivated allogenic limbal cells, corneal lesions were completely healed 15 days earlier than the lesions treated with conventional ophthalmological therapy. Subconjuctival application of limbal cells ensures fully regeneration of corneal lesions after 30 days regardless of the size and extent of the defect. Allogenic limbal cells were capable of restoring corneal clarity with no development of ocular complications. Although accomplished results are encouraging, further investigation is needed for optimizing therapy protocols.

corneal disorders ; allogenic limbal cells ; dogs

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