Contact
    Start Publications Novel method for the fabrication of ultrathin, free-standing ...
    ←  Publication Finder
    Attension

    Novel method for the fabrication of ultrathin, free-standing and porous polymer membranes for retinal tissue engineering

    Year: 2017

    Journal: J. Mat. Chem. B, Volume 5, JUL 28, page 5616–5622

    Authors: Tan, Edgar Yong Sheng; Agarwala, Shweta; Yap, Yee Ling; Tan, Colin Siang Hui; Laude, Augustinus; Yeong, Wai Yee

    Organizations: Nanyang Technological University - National Healthcare Group Ageing Research Grant [ARG/14009]

    Retinal degeneration causes permanent visual loss and affects millions of people worldwide. Cell transplantation may have the potential for retinal regeneration. However, several problems hinder the successful repair of the retina including cell delivery, integration, and survival. Recent studies have shown that the use of scaffolds can address these obstacles. Synthetic scaffolds are being explored to mimic the functions of Bruch's membrane, an extracellular matrix that acts as a molecular sieve, to maintain the metabolic exchange between the vasculature and outer retina. This work aims at fabricating an ultrathin and porous membrane, which mimics Bruch's membrane, using a novel method. We have developed a fast, easy and single-step method to create a free-standing, porous and ultrathin PCL membrane, through dropcasting of a polymer blend on a liquid interface. The free-standing scaffold with nanometer pores is investigated for human retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell response. The results demonstrate that the synthesised membrane can act as a potential prosthetic Bruch's membrane for RPE transplantation.
    View publication