Development a New Collagen–Gelatin Scaffold for Corneal Engineering

Purpose: In this study we constructed a novel composite of collagen-gelatin (Col-Gel) hydrogel for corneal regeneration. Methods: The scaffold is crosslinked hydrogel from gelatin and type I collagen. Characterization of scaffold was performed using transparency, mechanical properties, hydrophilicity and biocompatibility analysis. For thispurpose appropriate method such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), spectrophotometery, compressive modulus, Surface contact angle and MTT was performed. For cell experiment, human mesenchymal stem cells, as keratocyte progenitor, were cultured onto the surface of hydrogel and the response of stem cell to the scaffold was investigated by SEM fleucytometry and hematoxylin-eosin staining. Results: The crosslinked collagen–gelatin scaffold has adequate mechanical properties. Optical transparency of this scaffold is similar to native cornea. Biocompatibility test showed that this natural composite is not cytotocxic for mesenchymal stem cells. Histological and fluorescence examination indicated that mesenchymal stem cells cultured on the surface of scaffold have normal morphology. SEM images showed that human mesenchymal stem cells have been attached and infiltrated to hydrogel. Conclusion: Due to desirable characters including suitable biocompatibility, optical transparency, hydrophilicityand mechanical properties, this Col- Gel scaffold is an appropriate candidate for corneal tissue engineering.