Secretion and organization of a cornea-like tissue in vitro by stem cells from human corneal stroma.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

To investigate the potential of human corneal stromal stem cells to assume a keratocyte phenotype and to organize extracellular matrix (ECM) in vitro similar to corneal stromal tissue.

Methods

Human corneal stromal stem cells (hCSSC) were isolated as side population cells by flow cytometry. Cloned hCSSC were cultured as free-floating pellets in serum-free media for 3 weeks. Gene expression was examined using gene array, quantitative RT-PCR, immunostaining, and immunoblotting. Transmission electron microscopy showed collagen fibril size and alignment.

Results

Pellet cultures of hCSSC in serum-free media upregulated the expression of keratocyte-specific genes and secreted substantial ECM containing characteristic stromal components: keratocan, keratan sulfate, c

SUBMITTER: Du Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2874676 | biostudies-literature | 2007 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature