Scleral defect repair using decellularized porcine sclera in a rabbit model

BACKGROUND The sclera is one of the most commonly used repair materials in ophthalmic plastic surgery and is often used for supporting, wrapping, filling, and pressing during surgery. Although the sclera plays an irreplaceable role in ophthalmology applications, there are many restrictive factors, such as high costs and limited sources. Here, we report the use of a decellularized porcine sclera (DPS) for scleral reconstruction in rabbit models. METHODS The DPS generated by a hybrid decellularization protocol was characterized in respect of histological observation, DNA, α-gal, GAG, and collagen content. The mechanical properties were evaluated by uniaxial tensile testing. LIVE/DEAD and Cell Counting Kit (CCK)-8 assays were performed to assess its in vitro cytocompatibility and cytotoxicity. In vivo biocompatibility and biointegration of the DPS for repairing scleral defect in rabbit were measured by slit-lamp and histological analyses. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining was used to detect the expression of CD4, CD8, CD45, CD68, and vimentin. RESULTS Through decellularization, the major xenoantigen DNA and α-gal are efficiently removed while abundant matrix components and mechanical properties are well preserved in the DPS. Extracts of the DPS and DPS samples had no inhibitory effects on the proliferation of HFSFs. Moreover, there was no sign that an immune reaction occurred in or around the transplanted DPS grafts within 28 days of animal implantation. CONCLUSION The decellularization strategy we developed is feasible and effective. The prepared DPS holds great potential for the repair of scleral injury.