Directed Differentiation of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells towards Corneal Endothelial-Like Cells under Defined Conditions.

ABSTRACT: The most crucial function of corneal endothelial cells (CEnCs) is to maintain optical transparency by transporting excess fluid out of stroma. Unfortunately, CEnCs are not able to proliferate in vivo in the case of trauma or dystrophy. Visually impaired patients with corneal endothelial deficiencies that are waiting for transplantation due to massive global shortage of cadaveric corneal transplants are in a great need of help. In this study, our goal was to develop a defined, clinically applicable protocol for direct differentiation of CEnCs from human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs). To produce feeder-free hPSC-CEnCs, we used small molecule induction with transforming growth factor (TGF) beta receptor inhibitor SB431542, GSK-3-specific inhibitor CHIR99021 and retinoic acid to guide differe

SUBMITTER: Gronroos P 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7915025 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature